Journal of Reproductive Health, Gender, and HIV in Africa | 13 December 2006
Evaluating the Effectiveness of a Faith-Based Organisation-Led Stigma Reduction Intervention for People Living with HIV in Ghana's Ashanti Region: A Research Protocol
E, f, u, a, A, k, o, s, u, a, M, e, n, s, a, h, ,, N, a, o, m, i, C, h, a, n, ,, J, e, a, n, F, r, a, s, e, r
Abstract
HIV-related stigma remains a substantial barrier to care and quality of life for people living with HIV (PLHIV) in Ghana. Faith-based organisations (FBOs) are influential community institutions with potential to lead stigma reduction, but evidence for the effectiveness of such interventions in this context is limited. This protocol describes a study to evaluate the effectiveness of a multi-component, FBO-led intervention to reduce stigma against PLHIV in Ghana’s Ashanti Region. The primary objective is to assess changes in stigmatising attitudes and behaviours among congregation members. Secondary objectives include evaluating changes in PLHIV’s self-reported experiences of stigma and their healthcare engagement. A mixed-methods, quasi-experimental design with a comparison group will be used. The study will take place in four matched communities (two intervention, two comparison). The intervention, co-developed with local FBO leaders, will incorporate sermon guides, educational workshops, and testimonial sessions. Quantitative data will be collected using validated stigma scales administered pre- and post-intervention to congregation members and a cohort of PLHIV. Qualitative data will be gathered through focus group discussions and in-depth interviews to explore contextual experiences and mechanisms of change. As this is a protocol, no empirical findings are available. Anticipated findings include a measurable reduction in stigmatising attitudes among intervention congregation members compared to the comparison group. Qualitative data are expected to elucidate themes of increased empathy and doctrinal reinterpretation. This study will generate evidence on the feasibility and potential impact of leveraging FBO structures for HIV stigma reduction in a high-prevalence region. The findings will inform the scalability of such culturally embedded interventions. Future research should consider longitudinal designs to assess sustainability. Programme planners should involve FBO leadership in the co-design and implementation of stigma reduction initiatives. HIV, stigma, faith-based organisation, intervention, Ghana, quasi-experimental, mixed methods. This protocol contributes a detailed methodological framework for evaluating a community-embedded, faith-led approach to HIV stigma reduction in sub-Saharan Africa.