HEALTH

Sub-Saharan Africa is more heavily impacted by HIV/AIDS than any other region in the world. HIV/AIDS infection rates in Africa vary widely by country, but are highest in southern Africa at ~ 20%.  In East Africa, the focus of 3 Peaks 3 Weeks work to date, the infection rate is on average greater than 6%. According to the United Nations Millennium Development Goals, the most-affected African countries could lose up to a quarter of their labour force to AIDS by 2020.  Thus, 3 Peaks' primary focii in health are to combat the spread of HIV/AIDS in Africa and help provide treatment for those infected with the virus.  The UN Millennium Goals aim to reverse the spread of HIV/AIDS by 2015, and 3 Peaks is doing its part to help make that a reality.

In 2007, the first 3 Peaks 3 Weeks Challenge raised more than AUD$100,000 to combat the spread of HIV/AIDS.  More specifically, 3 Peaks funds were used to fund SIC’s  mobile testing program in Tanzania with the purchase of three fully equipped mobile testing units.  SIC's mobile testing program plays a critical role in HIV/AIDS prevention in that it gives Tanzanians in rural communities access to their HIV/AIDS status.  Once a person knows their status, they can alter their behaviour as needed to protect themselves and others from infection.  3 Peaks funds distributed in 2007 enabled SIC to more than double their testing capability, a powerful accomplishment in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

HIV/AIDS is a formidable enemy, but 3 Peaks provides critical funding to help combat the spread of HIV and importantly provide care to those infected with the virus.
 
Data Sources:
•    http://www.avert.org/aafrica.htm
•    http://www.aidsandafrica.com/stats_country.htm
•    http://www.mdgmonitor.org/goal6.cfm