Gender Differences in Correlates of Multiple Concurrent Sexual Partnerships in Namibia

Dominique Meekers, Tulane University
Ainura Moldokmatova, Tulane University

Southern African countries are still facing among the highest levels of HIV infection in the world. The prevalence rate in Namibia in 2008 was 17.8% compared to 1% in most countries in the world. According to the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) , multiple and concurrent sexual partnerships (MCP) between men and women along with inconsistent use of condoms are the key drivers of the rapid spread of HIV. Although nationally representative data on concurrency in Namibia have not been available until recently, several local studies have recorded high levels of concurrent partnerships. This study analyzes survey data from Namibia to identify gender differences in attitudinal factors and perceived norms ssociated with multiple sexual partnerships.