Contribution of Indigenous Knowledge Systems on the Prevention of HIV and AIDS in Zimbabwe: A Case of Bindura District

This study examined the contribution of indigenous knowledge towards the prevention of HIV and AIDS in Zimbabwe in Bindura District. The study employed the socialisation theory, within the symbolic interactionist school of thought. The study is qualitative in nature, which used a case study research design. The target population is confined to those above the age of 20. The study sample was drawn out through the use of a combination of convenience and purposive sampling. The sample size consisted of 30 participants, and 8 key informants. Structured interviews were utilised as the primary tool for data collection, whilst thematic content analysis was employed to analyse the findings. Findings reveal that IK has made significant contributions in terms of behavioural regulation, thus deterring individuals from exposing themselves to HIV/AIDS risk factors. However, the study also revealed that indigenous knowledge on the prevention of HIV/AIDS is quite fragmented, thus recommends that existing knowledge be compiled into an independent and unified knowledge base from which scientific inferences can be made. The study recommends further research into the efficacy and utility of measures suggested by IK in the treatment of HIV/AIDS.