AIDS IN ZAMBIA

FROM MY BROTHER FRED.....AIDS IN ZAMBIA

by Fred M. Allen

It is difficult to write about this subject as it developed in Zambia, the country we came to love during the 27 years my wife, Joy, and I served there as missionaries; but I do so to inform readers of the devastation on a society where this dreaded virus is widespread and to request prayer for the victims and for those trying to alleviate the suffering of so many. We were able to observe first-hand what was developing in this country of beautiful people.

Early in the spread of this virus, government officials would not allow news reporters to publish news about AIDS for they were in denial of its existence. After the death of a young adult with AIDS in the family of an official, the ban on such reporting was lifted. Not only did news spread far and wide, but rumors also spread with information based on hearsay and not on facts; so there was much confusion about AIDS. During this confusion, our Baptist Mission produced a Christian film that was viewed on national television revealing the truth about this virus, its causes, and the importance of living a lifestyle based on purity as taught in the Bible.

As the virus spread, we began to see the death of many of our close friends, some employees, pastors, and leaders in our churches, choir members and public figures in the country. I went to the Internet to seek updated information on AIDS in Zambia. It was heart-breaking to read statistics that show the number of Zambians who have died of AIDS. As of the year 2010, over 900,000 Zambians have died with AIDS or about 10% of her population. When a husband or wife gets the virus, his or her spouse will also get it, resulting in over 900,000 orphans. Often several children are left as orphans with no income even to buy food. At times a 12-year-old becomes the provider for his or her younger siblings. Often a Christian family has more orphans from deceased loved ones than the number of his or her own children creating an unbearable hardship on them. There are orphanages in Zambia, but they are far too few considering the great need. Many benevolence groups are doing what they can to help alleviate some of the sufferings of the children there. They just need more financial and prayer support. One of our Baptist churches has built an orphanage which includes a school for over 400 children. Not only are they provided with food, a safe home and taught about Jesus and His love for them, but they rank among the top in the country in their academic achievements.

They also sponsor evangelistic teams to share the love of Jesus with others.

The government has become more active in recent years in providing information and help to the population in the understanding of AIDS and the care of its victims, but much more needs to be done. You can imagine the devastation AIDS causes in society, especially since those who contract the virus are usually in their most productive years in the workforce. One businessman told me that, at any given time, 25% of their staff is either sick with AIDS or attending the funeral of an AIDS victim. Funerals usually last for several days there. God is ready and eager to help those who call on Him. We encourage you to pray for Zambia.