HIV/AIDS and Africa's orphan crisis
Leyenaar, J.K.
Paediatrics and Child Health 10(5): 259-260
2005
ISSN/ISBN: 1205-7088 PMID: 19668626 DOI: 10.1093/pch/10.5.259Document Number: 236335
The number of children orphaned by HIV/AIDS in the developing world has reached crisis proportions. In Sub-Saharan Africa, HIV/AIDS has exacerbated poverty in many communities and has weakened the capacity of many countries to care for their orphaned children. The present article discusses orphanage care and its alternatives in Sub-Saharan Africa. The physical and mental health effects of parental loss are discussed and the psychosocial impacts of institutional care are reviewed. Foster care is discussed as a potential long-term strategy to help communities cope with the rising numbers of HIV/AIDS orphans. The importance of community-based care is highlighted.