Africans are infected with HIV. From only a handful of cases at its outset to the most devastating epidemic of our time, AIDS has spread like a wildfire across the continent of Africa, fueled by fear, ignorance, inaction, and the indifference of the outside world. Even today, according to a recent report by UNAIDS, in sub-Saharan Africa there is still enormous stigma attached to the disease, and the sick are often ostracized. “Fear, stigma and denial: a vicious circle...this wall of silence hinders prevention and care.” Each day in Africa, more than 5,500 people die of AIDS. At its current rate of acceleration, by the year 2010 the epidemic will claim the lives of more than 13,000 Africans daily—unless the world does something to stop it.

* This number is already inaccurate. Add 165,000 for each month after February, 2002.

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