The global threat of AIDS is particularly prevalent in Africa. Ethiopia is one of the most highly AIDS affected countries in the world, as well as one of the poorest - a devastating combination.
The most vulnerable people to HIV/AIDS are commercial sex workers. All too often, women and children are forced into this trade, by having no other means to support themselves. Kalkidan (pictured left) is one such example. For Kalkidan, prostitution was a last resort for a woman who desires a dignified livelihood, but had no other choice if she was to survive and support her child. Like so many women in her position, she lives in constant fear of contracting HIV, and desperately desires a way out of her situation.
Also deeply affected by AIDS are the children who are orphaned because of it. Many children are born with HIV, or have lost their parents to the disease. Aklilu (pictured below) is one of these children.
When his mother learned that she was HIV positive, she abandoned Aklilu. One day, she took him to the market and disappeared into thin air. Aklilu's next-door neighbour took him in, and he is now supported by HOPE to attend school and get an education. Most children are not so fortunate, and end up on the street, fighting to survive.
HOPE is working with Kalkidan, Aklilu, and many more women and children like them. By empowering the poor to break out of poverty, they have a chance at a life that is safe and secure. HOPE aims to empower women and give them access to the resources they need to get out of the sex trade, or to avoid it completely. By abandoning commercial sex, these women leave behind a dangerous occupation and greatly reduce their risk of contracting HIV.
Furthermore, they gain dignity and self-respect as they begin to earn income without degrading themselves. For the children orphaned by HIV/AIDS, HOPE aims to ensure a decent education, as well as meeting their basic needs. Empowered with education and skills training, these children will have a chance at a new life, without resorting to the dangers of the sex trade to survive, and greatly lower their risk of contracting HIV/AIDS.
How can you help?
Connect directly with an AIDS orphan through HOPE's BFT Programme.
Support HOPE's HIV/AIDS projects in Africa by making a donation.
