Spreading awareness of HIV in Nepal

Khanidanda, Nepal, is a small village in the far west of Nepal. Close to the border with India, the village is a busy pit stop for migrant workers seeking employment. Research has shown that migrant workers are more likely to indulge in high-risk behaviour and to bring the HIV virus home to their own families and communities. 

In Nepal, migrant workers account for the majority of the HIV-positive population, making Khanidanda an ideal location for a CARE-supported HIV drop-in centre.

Nayansingh Bohara, 30, runs the drop-in centre. He points out that there are challenges when tackling the issues in the community: “The problem is that HIV is still such a taboo – no one ever openly says if they have it. Some people know the risks but others are shocked about the realities of HIV/AIDS. I give out around 90 condoms a week but often people don’t know how to use them so they have to be educated through demonstrations and videos.”

There are positive signs, says Nayansingh, “I have seen a lot of changes. People are more aware and want to use condoms. They even want to get tested.”

Incidences of infection appear to be levelling off in Nepal, but it is estimated that the majority of HIV-positive individuals are unaware of their infection, making centres like the Khanidanda one critical to protecting the workers and their families.

Learn more about CARE's work in HIV and AIDS.