We have the tools to combat HIV if only we would choose to use them. The first tool is political leadership. Politicians view it as a scary topic. With rare exception, politicians have and continue to avoid the AIDS dilemma until crisis is reached. When community and political leaders champion the fight results are dramatic.
Political leadership legitimizes action, channels resources and holds the bureaucracy accountable.
Failing infrastructures, poor education systems, a lack of economic opportunity and meager health care fuel the virus' spread. Simply put, alleviating poverty would make prevention easier. Until recently, the AIDS pandemic was perceived solely as a health issue. We now recognize it as a development issue. Desperately needed are expansions of credit programs, labor-saving technologies and help for those left behind, including orphans and the elderly.