Organization – HIV/AIDS in Africa

The impact of HIV/AIDS in African society is widespread. Out of every 100 people on earth infected by AIDS, 70 reside on the continent of Africa. In many countries, AIDS is reversing decades of progress made in expanding the life expectancy of the population. In the past year, the disease has claimed the lives of an estimated 1.5 million people in the region. More than 11 million children have been orphaned by AIDS. Beyond the suffering and death caused by the disease, the AIDS epidemic threatens to devastate the foundation of entire communities.

The social and economic consequences of the disease are overwhelming. Many families are losing their primary income earners. Others require in home care for sick relatives, reducing their capacity to earn money for their families. School plays a vital role in reducing the impact of the epidemic. Many children are forced to stay at home as a result of the disease, placing them at increased risk. The vast majority of people living with HIV/AIDS in Africa are between the ages of 15 and 49, which should represent the prime of their productive working lives. Through its impact on all aspects of society, the disease acts as a significant brake on economic growth and development.