Globally, radio programming is being used to share experiences of AIDS and to give advice on reducing risk and supporting those living with HIV/AIDS. The medium can provide facts on HIV/AIDS in the face of fear and stigma to combat discrimination and prejudice. Radio is also critical in raising awareness and understanding of AIDS not just as a health and social issue but also as a political, development and human rights concern.

Yet the wealth of AIDS awareness and other audio material produced by NGOs, government agencies and broadcasters is usually restricted to the geographical area where it has been produced and aired. It then often remains unheard by wider audiences.

The Internet provides a solution to this problem. OneWorld Radio AIDS Network has a searchable database exchange of audio files that allows broadcasters and other programme producers to upload and download AIDS programming in any language on the World Wide Web. Radio stations around the world can then rebroadcast this copyright-free material or adapt it for their own audiences. Anyone with Internet access can listen to the programmes online at OneWorld Radio AIDS Network website.

“For now, with no cure in sight, information and communication are our only effective weapons to beat AIDS/HIV,” said Priscilla Jere, director of OneWorld Africa. “OneWorld Radio AIDS Network links the power of radio with the networking potential of the Internet to make the connections that can really help limit the human suffering and devastation of HIV/AIDS.”

The OneWorld Radio AIDS Network website also includes news, training materials, funding information and other practical resources for national and community broadcasters, health educators and campaigners as well as people working in AIDS/HIV organizations, aid agencies and development NGOs.