1. Africa Regional Workshop on Vulnerable Populations and HIV/AIDS
MARCH

2. 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

3. Mauritania is a west african country, 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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