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Swaziland
Swaziland has the world's highest prevalence rate of HIV/AIDS. With a population of about 1 million, 38% are currently infected with the HIV virus, and an estimated 15% of households are headed by children. Eighty percent of Swaziland’s population survives on subsistence agriculture. Only 10% of the land is arable, and drought, floods and overgrazing have depleted the soil.
Episcopal Relief & Development is partnering with the Diocese of Swaziland to fight the spread of HIV/AIDS while working to improve the lives of those affected by the disease.
Promoting Health and Fighting Disease
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Home-based care teams ensure that people with HIV/AIDS receive care kits with basic medicines and food supplements.
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Soup kitchens provide orphans and vulnerable children with meals on weekends and school holidays, and support and counseling enable orphans and vulnerable children to continue in school.
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HIV/AIDS awareness workshops train clergy and community leaders to teach prevention methods, provide counseling and encourage voluntary testing and treatment, and a comprehensive prevention awareness campaign teaches young people how to protect themselves against HIV/AIDS.
Alleviating Hunger and Improving Food Supply
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Community gardening increases the incomes of families while ensuring nutritious food for orphans and people with HIV/AIDS on antiretroviral treatment.
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Agricultural training teaches young people effective farming methods, such as how to clear land, construct irrigation systems, and plant and care for crops.
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Livestock farming with goats and chickens provides sources of food and opportunities to earn additional income by selling eggs and milk.
