Africare News In Brief

Nelson Mandela has been a continued driving force in South Africa’s growth to independence since the days of his presidency.

“Madiba” as he is affectionately called, is the name the tribe Mandela belongs to, and bestowing it upon this great leader was an act of honor from those who appreciated his selfless sacrifices the most.

Around the world, many people remember the imprisonment of Mandela under the apartheid government; but a 27-year sentence did not defeat his spirits or make him a broken man. Instead, this courageous servitude became the foundation for South African freedom that brought everyone together.

For the past 8 years, Africare has followed in the steps of our Honorary Chairman by working on the Injungu Yethu Project in the area of East Cape South Africa. A project that increases the awareness; expands the access to quality treatment, care and support services for those affected by HIV and AIDS; and develops sustainable support services for orphans and vulnerable children (OVC).

More specifically, Africare takes a continuum of care approach to preventing the spread of HIV and AIDS while caring for those living with it through activities that encourage prevention and foster education, promote HIV testing and counseling, prevent “Mother to Child Transmission” of HIV (PMTCT), and provides treatment for adults and children living with HIV and TB. We have also developed community networks to care and support people living with HIV and their caregivers and children through a comprehensive, family-centered approach to ensure that children can have the future in which Nelson ‘Madiba’ Mandela has pledged for us all.

This project to date has touched 5, 000 mothers and over 14,000 orphaned and vulnerable children.

So today, as this great leader celebrates his 94th birthday, Africare lends its voice to the choir of many that proudly and thankfully sing out: HAPPY BIRTHDAY MADIBA!!!