AIDS activism in Sub-Saharan Africa: A hybrid approach

The African continent is facing its worst health crisis yet â€" HIV/AIDS. So much work is being done to minimize its impact that it is difficult to determine what is effective. This thesis examines the various contributors to AIDS activism in Sub-Saharan Africa to develop a model for effective and appropriate AIDS activism. By examining theoretical concepts of activism and development, a foundation of power analysis within the context of the bottom-up framework for development is established. An understanding of resources and interactions between levels of AIDS activism forms the basis of the argument in support of grassroots initiatives. Through case study analysis of AIDS activist initiatives and a regional comparison, the proposal for a hybrid AIDS activist system is put forth. Leveraging the strengths of grassroots activism, intermediary organizations and international institutions, the hybrid AIDS activist system becomes the global strategy to address the HIV/AIDS pandemic. A product of the integration of the various levels of AIDS activism is the organization which, within itself, utilizes multiple approaches of AIDS activism. Equally important in the hybrid system is the acknowledgment of the work of the individual activist, who has successfully utilized their skills and experience to benefit the AIDS activist cause. In the end, only the collaboration of all levels of AIDS activism will produce a global effort which successfully addresses AIDS in Africa.