---

Compounded by the high poverty levels, recurrent droughts, unfavorable economic environment and periodic violent political conflicts, the country is grappling with the devastating effects of HIV and AIDS. The HIV prevalence rate has declined from 20.1 percent in 2005 to 14.3 percent in 2013; this however is one of the highest in the world. The net effects of HIV and AIDS and poverty continue to place a heavy burden on orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) and the families taking care of them.

---