Latest figures show that there are over 33 million people living with HIV, 22 million are in Africa and over half of them will die of AIDS before they are 35 years of age. A shocking 2.1 million children under 15 are infected. Although advances in treatment and prevention have been made there is a call for greater assistance before any significant improvement can be accomplished. Zambia is one of the worst countries affected; there are 33,000 children infected with HIV and over 700,000 are orphaned through the HIV/AIDS pandemic. Every family in the country has been infected or affected.

In the UK there are over 90,000 reported cases of HIV, many more are undiagnosed. HIV is on the increase both in the UK and globally.

Education is the key, particularly in under-developed countries. Providing educational workshops, helping to remove the stigma and voluntary testing is crucial. Unlike malaria HIV is slow to develop therefore many people do not take it seriously. Women are four times more likely to become infected than men, not only putting themselves at risk but also their unborn babies.

Music and drama can play an influential part in helping to alleviate the prejudice and myths surrounding HIV/AIDS. Performing songs and putting on drama productions can play a key role in sensitising a community.

Understanding the facts of HIV, removing the stigma and knowing your status are essential motives to not only protecting your own health, but for the well-being of others.