The continent of Africa is the second largest on Earth. While the continent as a whole faces numerous, serious challenges, it’s important to remember that Africa consists of about 50 different countries - each with their own history, cultures, traditions, and obstacles.

When speaking about Africa, several issues at the forefront of conversation are HIV/AIDS, corruption, poverty, hunger, and child welfare. I like to be informed about difficult issues such as these, so I will review the facts in order to take an educated position.

Fact: In South Africa, nearly 6 million people are living with HIV/AIDS. This is approximately 12% of the country’s total population, or roughly one in eight people. The five countries with the highest infection rates are all located in southern Africa.

Consider these questions: What is the impact on a society with such a high infection rate? Is poverty a cause of the high infection rate? Are educational programs in place to help prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS?

Fact: The country has an unemployment rate between 23% and 25%, leaving one in four working-age adults without a steady income.

Consider these questions: Is the government to blame for poverty? Has the unemployment rate increased or decreased since the fall of Apartheid? Are changes being made to the educational system to address this problem?

Fact: Since the fall of Apartheid, about two million low-cost houses have been built. However, more than two million informal shack settlements still exist; households that are without access to sanitation and electricity.

Consider these questions: Is the housing problem being addressed at a reasonable pace? What is the cost to the government to move people into permanent housing? Is it or is it not important to eliminate shack settlements across the country?

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