Another blamed the negative influence of television. The queen mother said large families create economic hardship, with parents unable to take care of their children. Parents too often don't give children the financial support they need, she said, leaving them to find money for food and school fees however they can. Just 1,098 people in the region of 225,000 are known to be HIV-positive, but estimates put the infection rate much higher. Most people are not tested.
CARE helps communities educate and care for the next generation.
But there are additional cultural factors, according to CARE Project Manager Joyce Sepenoo. Modern contraception use is low. Some believe contraceptives have dangerous, even deadly, side effects. Others refrain from using contraception for religious reasons. Community advisors provide services and information through health clinics, the region's hospital, traditional healers, maternity homes and community groups, such as churches, youth groups and professional associations.