The socioeconomic determinants of HIV transmission: The role of women in African AIDS epidemics

The socioeconomic position of women within African societies is discussed in terms of its implications for understanding HIV infection and transmission in African epidemics. The historical development of the sexual division of labor in colonial and post-colonial African countries is related to the epidemiology of HIV infection in developing countries in order to postulate possible relationships. Special attention is given to the development and expansion of wage labor, urban migration, the horizon of economic and political opportunities available to women, and the economic importance of domestic labor. A qualitative study of the relations between the position of women and HIV prevalence at a national level, justifying further study within individual societies. The study concludes with a discussion of implications for targeted interventions, broader social and economic changes, and bilateral donors.