MPhil study projects

Basotho female migrant workers and their HIV/Aids risks in South Africa: A qualitative systematic literature review

Student: Lee-Ann Marais

Country: South Africa

Migration and mobility have been identified as significant global drivers of HIV/Aids prevalence. South Africa exhibits the highest prevalence rates worldwide, followed by Lesotho.

Research on Basotho female migrants is scant due to their mobility. This thesis examined HIV/Aids risk factors encountered by Basotho female migrants and explored initiatives to mitigate these risks. Employing a systematic literature review, the study analysed 26 relevant studies focusing on Lesotho and South Africa. Half of the studies investigated the nexus between HIV/Aids and migration in the region, with 30% revealing deficiencies in programmes and policies and 19% highlighting barriers to accessing HIV/Aids care services.

The findings underscored the need for travel data collection to inform treatment strategies and programmes. Despite existing legislation, implementation gaps persist to safeguard migrant workers. Inadequate research hinders understanding of HIV/Aids risk factors among Basotho female migrants. The study concluded that while there are numerous risk factors in this migrant community, effective migration responses in Lesotho and South Africa can mitigate the challenge­s.

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