Multiple Vulnerabilities

Qualitative data for the study of orphans and vulnerable children in South Africa

In 2002, the Human Sciences Research Council was commissioned by the WK Kellogg Foundation to develop and implement a five-year intervention project focusing on orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) in southern Africa. In collaboration with several partner organizations, the project currently focuses on how children, families and communities in Botswana, South Africa and Zimbabwe are coping with the impact of HIV/AIDS. The aim of the project is to develop models of best practise so as to enhance and improve support structures for OVC in the southern African region as a whole.

In the last decade, South Africa has made significant progress in reducing child and maternal mortality rates. Although progress has been made in improving levels of maternal and child morbidity and mortality, it is important to indicate that data used are based on varied sources and systems that sometimes yield conflicting data.

At a time when alarming numbers of people with HIV/AIDS seek help under cover of darkness, deeply ashamed of their plight, it is crucial to find ways to better comprehend and address the specific nature of stigma around HIV/AIDS in southern Africa.

The generalised nature of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in South Africa means that it impacts unevenly on businesses. Companies respond in varied ways, and with varied means, to the challenges posed by the epidemic. Assessment of the impacts of HIV/AIDS, and of the responses of companies to it, are critical to help mitigate the impact of the epidemic on productivity, labour costs, and the supply of skills.