Firms in Tanzania and Zambia estimate the cost of Aids illnesses and death was more than their total annual profits. But as the epidemic continues to spin out of control, countries face more than just a health crisis. They face a growing threat to human development and to economic and social stability. War spreads the disease Conflict has also become a critical factor in the spread of the disease. HIV infection rose sixfold among formerly rural people who had fled to refugee camps.
Many carriers have no access to voluntary testing or counselling.
Even when these services are offered, many do not want to know or acknowledge their HIV status because of the blame and shame attached to the disease. Yet the sole HIV support group in the city has just 70 members. Experience teaches us that this does not happen automatically. The silence needs to be broken, publicly and courageously, by leaders who encourage their people to face the truth about Aids.