Impact of COVID-19 on Livelihoods and HIV Risk and Vulnerability Among Women Living in Urban Informal Settlements in Uganda

Abstract:

Makerere University School of Public Health and University of Waterloo co-led research will study the impact of COVID-19 on employment, economic status and HIV risk and vulnerability among women living in urban informal settlements in two major cities (Kampala and Mbale) in Uganda. Using a mixed-method (qualitative and quantitative) descriptive cross-sectional study, the project will explore the changes in employment (paid and unpaid) and economic status due to the pandemic, its impact on risk and vulnerability to HIV, and the strategies employed by women to cope with COVID-19 related work stress that exposes them to HIV risk and vulnerability. The evidence generated will inform inclusive, sustainable and equitable gender transformative solutions for COVID-19 recovery and future health emergencies.

Expected results

Expected results includes:

• Increased understanding of the socio-economic and HIV-related impact of COVID-19 on women living in urban informal settlements.
• Increased understanding of the coping strategies of women living in urban informal settlements and how the existing COVID-19 recovery interventions have been or not been helpful to them.
• A context specific co-designed intervention package for COVID-19 recovery in urban informal settlements.