Socio-economic impact of HIV/AIDS on children affected by HIV/AIDS in South West Nigeria

Adebayo O. Ajala, Nigerian Institute of Social and Economic Research
Olakunle Odumosu
Sunday Alonge
Nancy Nelson-Twakor

This paper aims to determine how the needs of the children affected by HIV/AIDS could be appropriately met. The study was based on a survey of persons in HIV/AIDS affected households, which included 135 adults and 206 of their children. At least 44% are orphans. 2% of all the children are HIV positive. A fair number of the children engage in economic activity. Major needs of the children included school uniform, books and bags and financial assistance. One-fifth of children linked parents’ inability to do more of what they desired to their ill health. In conclusion, the specific impact of HIV/AIDS on children need be responded to now more than ever. The well being of children affected will depend on the community and public policy interventions introduced to moderate the impact of the disease on children and families.