Theological Reflections on Sex as a Cleansing Ritual for African Widows

Abstract

The HIV and AIDS epidemic is nearly 40 years old since the HIV was first discovered in the United States. At the moment the epicentre of HIV new infections; challenges related to the availability, accessibility and adherence to ART and AIDS related deaths is Africa south of the Sahara (UNAIDS Report 2016; see also UNAIDS 2013 Global Report). A lot of work in the form of research and publications has already been done in responding to the epidemic. The government, Non-Governmental Organisations, Faith Based Organisa-tions, churches and other religious institutions have invested in human, material and financial resources over the years in a bid to mitigate the effects of the epidemic (Moyo 2015; and Haddad 2011). With so much efforts and investment in mitigating against HIV and AIDS, the impact of the disease is still evident in many communities especial in Africa South of the Sahara which has remained as the epicentre.