Africa Regional Workshop on Vulnerable Populations and HIV/AIDS MARCH 11-13-2009

MSM in Mauritania They are named Gordjguen; Belong to several categories: Have a role in the society: some of them are very influent; have good relations ; good chanel of news and events in the city

Mauritania is a west african country, 3 000 000 inhabitants, 100 % Muslim, with a conservative society and low prevalence rate of HIV/AIDS ( 0.61%) Prostitution and homosexuality and illegal and punished by the Law; Religious leaders are very influent in making decisions

Our approach in adressing vulnerable population issues Authorities and decision makers sensitization and advocacy; Encourage and support two national NGOs to work with vulnerable population; Make available and accessible condoms, counsel and tests, and treatment

Results three years after The majority of sex workers get free condoms through NGOs , tests and if necessary treatment. They trust in working with NGOs; MSM are also involved in the program and some of them have been trained as peer educators , they have access to prevention programs and the ones already infected receive care , treatment and IGA support

In conclusion Five years ago, nobody thought we can work with these vulnerable population; Advocacy and negociation are key elements; One’s should work with what he has, not wait to have everything to work