Methods:
The social construction and liberal feminism theory guided this study. A descriptive and explorative qualitative approach was adopted. Purposive and convenient sampling methods were used to select participants who met the inclusion criteria and were willing to participate. In depth individual semi-structured interviews and field notes were used to explore and describe the role of culture in the spread of HIV and AIDS among farm workers. The interviews were audio-recorded and quotations were used to preserve the richness of data. Tesch’s data analysis method was used to analyse the data.
Results:
This study produced significant data relating to both HIV and AIDS and the general conditions of farm workers. Religious and cultural beliefs were believed to be fueling the spread of HIV among farm workers. Multiple sexual partners and inconsistent condom usage was common among participants. It was evident that stigma and social isolation leading to non- disclosure had adverse repercussions as some participants stated that they would spread HIV intentionally. Powerlessness and lack of decision-making by female farm workers was common as they were dependent on their male partners to make decisions regarding sexual matters in their relationship The active involvement of all stakeholders is required in preventing HIV and AIDS as well as addressing its socio-economic impact.
Conclusion:
In order to address the needs of farmworkers, it is important to provide health promotion, which is culture-sensitive to avoid exacerbating the existing gender inequality among farmworkers. Gender inequality and disempowerment of women are expressed as factors increasing the HIV vulnerability of female farmworkers as they find themselves in a compromised situation of being discriminated against by their male counterparts, their families and their employers. The researcher believes that it is crucial that men be brought into the mainstream of HIV and/or AIDS policies and programmes to challenge their social constructions and address their psycho-social and socio-economic vulnerabilities. Gender equality and social change will also encourage men to become important partners in curbing the spread of HIV. This is particularly relevant to farmworkers in South Africa, where the highest rates of HIV are recorded. More HIV prevention programmes tailored to dispel fears about stigma and correct myths about HIV-transmission should reach ordinary men and women in order to curb the spread of HIV among farm workers.