Challenges Of The Language Used In Campaigns Against HIV/Aids: Bariadi District, In Tanzania

ABSTRACT

The study generally investigates the Challenges of the Language used in Campaigns against HIV/AIDS in Tanzania, using a case study of Bariadi district in Shinyanga region. The study examined the language used by campaigners against HIV/AIDS whether is understood by youths, addressed the views of youths on the language used in campaigns against HIV/AIDS and assessed the appropriateness of the language used in campaigns against the disease in the Tanzanian context. The researcher collected data through questionnaire, interview and documentary review. The analysis of the data on questionnaire was done through SPSS programme. Interview data were analysed by description. With documentary review, the obtained data were analysed by using the CDA approach. In the perspective of the youths‟ comprehension on the language used, the analysis depicts that the language used is understood but not absolutely. This is due to the challenges found in the particular language (Kiswahili) like the use of jargons, vocabularies, euphemisms and metaphoric expressions. The views of doctors, campaigners and youths on the language used in these campaigns demonstrate that the local languages/ECLs would be more appropriate if used in the village environment. In Bariadi district‟s villages, the researcher found that the language used in these campaigns are not appropriate based on the way it is used. Kiswahili language is used in campaigns while in the village environment; there are individuals who do not understand the language. In magazines and fliers read there were texts that show the vii use of stigmatizing language and sexist language. The use of all these, lead to the language being regarded as inappropriate.