Operationalizing the distribution of oral HIV self-testing kits to men who have sex with men (MSM) in a highly homophobic environment: The Nigerian experience

Background: Self-care health interventions are innovative approaches for improving health and achieving the SDGs. MSM have been disproportionately affected by HIV. In spite of this, stigma from healthcare workers has reportedly prevented MSM from accessing HIV testing in health facilities. This paper explored the operationalization of using KOLs to distribute HIVST kits to MSM. Methods: This qualitative survey used a combination of IDI with HIVST users and FGDs with KOLs to collect data three months after distribution of the test kits by the KOLs. Thematic analysis of the data was carried out. Results: Three themes were generated namely: KOLs serve as a trusted resource to promote and support HIVST for the MSM community; Skills and qualifications of KOLs required to effectively distribute and promote uptake of HIVST; and Effective strategies used to create demand and promote uptake of HIVST. Conclusions: This study showed the practical steps involved in operationalizing KOL support system distribution of HIVST that positively influenced the testing experience for the participants irrespective of the HIV status and engagement in care. KOLs are a reliable resource to leverage on for ensuring that HIV self-test is utilized and positive individuals are linked to treatment and care in homophobic environments.