This project uses ICTs to share factual information, foster the exchange of HIV/AIDS- and malaria-related experiences, and encourage the purchase of products that aim to support good health. Namely, the project sends text messages with PSI/Mali-created health slogans twice a month to 350,000 clients, free of charge. HIV/AIDS and malaria prevention slogans are also being printed on one million pre-paid phone cards. Specifically, simple, concrete messages such as "Anyone can get HIV - everyone can prevent it" and "Protect your family against malaria - use an insecticide-treated mosquito net" are part of the campaign’s aim to raise awareness and promote PSI's products: Protector brand condoms, BLOC insecticide net retreatment kits, and Super Moustiquaire Famille Protégée treated nets.
All the HIV messages in this social marketing campaign contain a reference to an interactive sexual health website created by PSI/Mali for young, urban Malians. This site - 100% Jeune (French language only) - includes information on transmission and prevention of HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted infections, as well as on contraception and family planning. The website provides information not only about HIV/AIDS, but also about reproductive and sexual health and male-female relationships, in an anonymous and interactive format. Interactivity is facilitated through a doctor who answers questions posed by visitors to the site and a forum for Malian youth. Abstinence, fidelity, and condoms are all discussed. Entertaining tactics are also reflected in the various quizzes and games offered here.
Partnership is a key component: The same messages sent by Ikatel scroll at the top of every web page, a strategy for reinforcing the connection between the two partners.
HIV/AIDS, Family Planning, Youth, Health.
Ikatel and PSI/Mali, with funding from the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria; Government of Luxembourg; and the US Agency for International Development (USAID).
Afro-nets Digest, Vol 2, Issue 120, December 6, 2004; and "Mali: High Impact through High Tech" on the PSI website.