Malawian transitioning elites: identity construction and critical HIV/AIDS discussions

Abstract

This study analyses the characteristics and life trajectories of highly educated18 to 35 year old Malawians, how they negotiate their identities in the face of HIV/AIDS, and their opinions regarding the effectiveness of current HIV/AIDS treatment and prevention efforts. These Malawians are among the privileged few who get an opportunity to complete their secondary education and potentially attend post-secondary classes. However, their livelihoods are inevitably tied to HIV/AIDS and public health employment opportunities and discourses due to the high HIV/AIDS prevalence in Malawi. These Malawians routinely presented their identities in the context of their understanding of HIV/AIDS. They also critically discussed the merits of current HIV/AIDS policies and potential alternative methods to decrease the spread of HIV in Malawi. By considering who highly educated Malawians are and why they discuss HIV/AIDS in such a manner, more culturally appropriate and innovative solutions in ridding Malawi of this epidemic may be understood.