Integrating Indigenous Knowledge Systems into HIV prevention strategies: a systematic review of community-based health promotion interventions in Southern Africa

Abstract

In Southern Africa, the human immunodeficiency virus constitutes a significant public health challenge, characterised by elevated rates of new infections in rural populations. Conversely, biomedical interventions have facilitated advancement. The incorporation of Indigenous Knowledge Systems into Human Immunodeficiency Virus preventive techniques is still little investigated. This systematic analysis assesses the incorporation of Indigenous Knowledge Systems into community-based HIV prevention strategies in Southern Africa. This systematic review complied with the PRISMA principles. A search was performed across various electronic databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, and CINAHL, for papers published from 01 January 2015 to 31 June 2025. A total of 51,972 studies were discovered, of which 14 matched the inclusion criteria and were evaluated. The analysis revealed that incorporating Indigenous Knowledge Systems into community-based HIV prevention programs in Southern Africa improved cultural relevance, community involvement, and trust in health initiatives. Traditional healers significantly contributed to counselling, education, and the increase of HIV testing in rural regions, leading to enhanced service accessibility and diminished stigma. Notwithstanding these advantages, several projects nevertheless lacked official policy support and organised collaborations between conventional and biological health sectors.

Keywords: {'name': 'Indigenous knowledge systems'}, {'name': 'HIV Prevention'}, {'name': 'Health Promotion'}, {'name': 'Traditional healer'}

Authors & affiliations

Osia Livhuwani Munyangane
University of Venda

Pfarelo Matshidze
Department of Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Heritage Studies, University of Venda, RSA

Khutso Lekgothoane
Physical Activity, Sport, and Recreation, North-West University, Potchefstroom, RSA

Tobias Mokwena
Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Venda, RSA

Vhulenda Negota
Department of Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Heritage Studies, University of Venda, RSA

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