Children affected by HIV/AIDS in Africa

We have been moved by the plight of children around the world who suffer the effects of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. The problem is particularly acute in sub-Saharan Africa. Children are directly affected in a number of ways. They may live at high risk of HIV; they may live with chronically ill parents or adults and be required to work or put their education on hold in order to take on household and caregiving responsibilities; and their households may experience greater poverty because of the disease.

Children can also become orphans, losing one or both parents to AIDS-related illnesses. In sub-Saharan Africa, AIDS is the leading course of death among adults ages 15-59, and as one consequence, an estimated 12 million children ages 0-17 have lost one or both parents to AIDS. By 2010, an estimated 15.7 million children in sub-Saharan Africa will have become orphans as a result of AIDS.

How UNICEF Helps

UNICEF is a United Nations affiliated organization dedicated to the protection of children's rights and well-being. By offering youth-friendly and gender-sensitive services and a protective familial, social and legal environment, UNICEF works closely with young people to prevent new infections. UNICEF also works to help communities provide care, protection and support to children orphaned and made vulnerable by the disease.