RESUMO
PIP: This paper examines the impact of voluntary HIV counseling and testing (VCT) in Zambia based on the Kara Counseling Experience. The Kara Counseling and Training Trust has offered VCT services since 1992. Overall, it is noted that although counseling by people other than family members or community elders is a new concept in Zambia, it was seen as useful by virtually all attendees who valued the opportunity to share problems with a counselor who was not judgmental. Although the demand has risen, considerable barriers to HIV counseling still exist such as fear of discrimination and abandonment. Poor communication between partners is in part due to traditional beliefs about discussing sensitive subjects and roles of men and women within marriage. This paper recommends the need to teach young people about HIV and gender awareness. Moreover, VCT should also be linked with medical care, and improving medical services for people with HIV will help reduce the barriers to testing. Lastly, improving linkages to palliative and home care services will help alleviate the fears of those who test positive.^ieng