Protection: A Film about Men and Condoms in the Time of HIV and AIDS

Produced by Sonke Gender Justice and Fireworx Media, "Protection" is a documentary exploring the ways in which men and boys in South Africa, Kenya, and Sierra Leone relate to and experience condom use. Accompanied by a facilitator's guide, the film explores why correct and consistent condom use remains a challenge for many men across the continent, despite the fact that condoms are widely available. The guide highlights issues surrounding condom use that need to be discussed. It also suggests different ways to utilise the film and lists questions that can help focus discussion after viewings.

The film is divided into 3 parts:

• Soweto, South Africa: Following the stories of an elderly, respected trainer in a Soweto boxing club and a young Johannesburg boxer, this section looks at the challenges in caring for a healthy, strong body in a world of HIV.
• Kenya: A stone-carving community gathers to discuss the importance of condoms and how to stop tradition dying out as a result of HIV and AIDS.
• Sierra Leone: This section explores the different attitudes and approaches of two young men with different views on condom use in a shanty town in post-war Sierra Leone.

The film may be used in a number of different ways. Facilitators can show the full film, which runs for 110 minutes or show any one of the film's three sections (each is about 35 to 40 minutes long). There are also four very short mini-films, the "extras", which can be useful to stimulate discussions in shorter time frames or to focus discussion in ensuing follow-up sessions. The Protection website contains more information about the film and how to order a copy of the film and facilitator's guide. It also has background information about HIV/AIDS and suggestions for getting involved with HIV/AIDS advocacy.