The Adventist Development and Relief Agency has started a new HIV/AIDS program in the town of Mooi River in KwaZulu Natal Province, South Africa. The multi-faceted, three-year program focuses on prevention strategies, support groups, economic development activities, and home-based care for those suffering from AIDS.

Mooi River was chosen for the program because an estimated one-third of its 22,500 residents have HIV/AIDS. The town, located along a toll road, has few income-generation opportunities for women with little education, and prostitution has flourished. The South African government has built a large number of houses as one way to alleviate poverty but the number of people who have died from AIDS has drastically shortened the waiting list.

HIV/AIDS prevention is a key component of the new program and youth are encouraged to talk with each other about changing their behavior and taking responsibility for their actions. An economic development program offers women an alternative to prostitution as a way of earning an income.

A support group will help people cope with the suffering of family members or friends. The last phase of the program to be implemented will be home-based care of those with advanced AIDS.