Output details

Organic Agriculture and HIV/AIDS in Sub-Saharan Africa

The aim of this research was to deepen understanding and bring new perspectives on the role of sustainable agriculture and nutrition security for preventing and mitigating the impacts of people living with HIV and AIDS in Sub Saharan Africa. The key research questions were i) examine the links between HIV/AIDS and the agricultural sector, ii) describe the impacts of HIV/AIDS on food security, iii) explore the reciprocal relationship between access to organic food and nutrition and HIV/AIDS especially for rural people with little or no access to high levels of medical attention required for HIV/AIDS treatment, iv) discuss the impact of improved and diversified foods on preventing or reducing HIV/AIDS, v) document the evidence on which further research can be conducted, and vi) make recommendations on HIV/AIDS programming. A literature review was supported by the development of regionally diverse case studies drawing from partners and contacts in Sub Saharan Africa who provided both documentation and interviews. These contacts and key informants were sourced in the UK, the Netherlands, Sweden, the USA, DR Congo, Tanzania, Zambia and Kenya. During the research, distinct categories were identified in the policy debate on HIV/AIDS, agriculture and nutrition, as well as critical blind spots. A final report was produced as a policy document intended to inform and provide recommendations to governments, international organisations and donors on the potential contribution of sustainably produced food and nutrition in tackling the impacts of HIVAIDS in Sub Saharan Africa.

The report is publicly available from the website of the International Federation of Organic Agricultural Movements. It has also been translated into French for West African nations.

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