Responses to the Global HIV and AIDS Pandemic: a Study of the Role of Faith Based Organisations in Lesotho

ABSTRACT

This article attempts to establish the key contribution by people of faith to the global HIV pandemic response; using Lesotho as a case study. Particular focus is paid to the work of selected religious organisations in Lesotho in this context; assessing their capacities to coordinate an effective HIV and AIDS action at the grassroots levels through education; health care; development; and social service activities. Empirical evaluations and findings regarding the level and quality of faith-based engagement in this field establish the basic premise of this article; namely; that faith-based organisations are contributing energy; expertise; and experience in order to achieve the commitment of the global commitment to advance universal access to HIV prevention; treatment; and support. Although the article is particularly focused on the Lesotho context; its tremendous implications for simulated studies and approaches across Sub-Saharan Africa are accentuated