Holy Water as an Intervention for HIV/AIDS in Ethiopia

Abstract

A growing number of people living with HIV/AIDS in Ethiopia today are relocating to holy water sites, in search of spiritual care. This article documents the experiences of 17 people living with HIV/AIDS, based on their in-depth interviews by the author. The use of holy water is considered by them to be an alternative and complementary treatment for HIV/AIDS. In addition, there are some other spiritual practices that can be considered spiritual treatment. The issue of using antiretroviral treatment together with holy water treatment remains controversial among the research participants. The article shows areas of intervention for social workers regarding the people living with HIV/AIDS who are heading to holy water sites for relief.

KEYWORDS:

• alternative and complementary treatments
• antiretroviral therapy (ART)
• faith-based services
• HIV/AIDS
• holy water

I would like to acknowledge the research participants and the church administrators for their collaboration in the study, as well as Addis Ababa University for covering the costs of the research. I would also like to commend Professor Sandya Joshi for taking the time to edit the article. Additionally, I would like to thank the colleagues who are working at the Journal of HIV/AIDS & Social Services for providing me valuable comments that allowed the realization of this article.