Ugandan HIV/AIDS orphans in charge of their households speak out: A study of their health-related worries

Abstract

The number of children orphaned due to HIV/AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa was estimated in 2007 by UNAIDS at upwards of 12 million. In Uganda alone, 800,000 of the estimated 1.6 million orphans are said to be orphaned due to this cause. These children suffer life-long consequences from the loss of their parents. This study explores the situation of children living in child-headed households in Uganda's western Kabarole district. Through qualitative research, including in-depth interviews with 20 child heads of households, the health concerns of these children are documented. The interview data were analysed using qualitative research techniques. The study reveals that the psychological and physical effects of orphanhood are magnified for those living in child-headed households. In particular, it highlights the fears of theft and abuse which are a constant source of anxiety for these children. It reports that illness episodes among younger siblings are also particularly worrisome for child heads of households. The article concludes with recommendations for addressing this urgent problem in sub-Saharan Africa.

Keywords:

• HIV/AIDS
• orphans
• child-headed households
• Uganda

Acknowledgements

Our heartfelt thanks to the children for their participation in the interviews. We are indebted to Jean Kipp for very useful comments on the first draft of the manuscript. The study was financed by a grant for the Fund for Support of International Development Activities (FSIDA), University of Alberta, Canada.