Idols

M-Net and UNICEF have come together to inform the general public on the impact of HIV-AIDS on children.

M-Net and have come together to inform the general public on the impact of HIV-AIDS on children.

Sub-Saharan Africa is home to 24 of the 25 countries with the world’s highest levels of HIV prevalence. It is estimated that globally 15 million children have been orphaned by HIV/AIDS, more than 12 million in sub-Saharan Africa alone.

Less than 10 per cent of these children are currently receiving public support and services. In the world today, a child dies of an AIDS-related illness every minute of every day, and a young person contracts HIV every 15 seconds. The vast majority of them live in sub-Saharan Africa.

Every day in West and Central this region, an estimated 500 children under age 15 become infected with HIV. Most children living with the virus do not receive the proper treatment they need to live healthy lives and very few HIV positive pregnant women get adequate care to prevent the transmission of the virus to their babies.

UNICEF launched the Unite for Children, Unite against AIDS campaign to show the world that children are as affected by HIV/AIDS as adults. The campaign is attracting support and funds that will enable UNICEF to implement projects for children and their families to prevent infection, protect children who are infected and affected and special provide paediatric treatment.

In a film especially recorded by the two finalists of Idols West Africa, Omawumi Megbele and Timi Dakolo appeal to the viewers “We need your support please join us and help UNICEF to free young lives from the burden of AIDS.”

M-Net and UNICEF are hoping for greater public awareness of the pandemic in the region and increased support for projects aiming to help children.

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