AIDS first appeared in Africa on the shores of Lake Victoria in Uganda. By 1993 an estimated 1.5 million Ugandans were living with HIV, more than any other country in the world.

Today Uganda is one of the few countries in the developing world where HIV prevalence is decreasing dramatically. President Museveni talks openly about the AIDS problem, helping to combat stigma. There is evidence of a significant change in sexual behaviour, especially among young people.

Our experience has shown that the communities facing HIV/AIDS every day know best how to tackle the crisis. Our work therefore concentrates on encouraging and supporting local innovation and action.

In 1987 we helped set up the country's leading HIV/AIDS support agency, The AIDS Support Organisation (TASO), which is now a model for other countries. It provides services and support to around 30,000 families.

Stepping Stones, an HIV/AIDS community training package, which we first developed in Uganda in 1995, has now been introduced into a major teaching institution. Our Strategies for Action programme works with over 50 partner organisations to support families living with HIV/AIDS, educate groups in prevention and share experiences and learning.