Selebi-Phikwe is in the eastern region of Botswana. It has a population of nearly 60 000 people, many of whom work for the local copper-nickel mine. Recent ante-natal statistics revealed that 49.9% of pregnant mothers were HIV-positive (Sentinel Surveilance 2007). Selebi-Phikwe has the highest prevalence of HIV infection in Botswana and therefore has the highest relative number of orphans and vulnerable children. This is one of the reasons why Mothers for All is targeting this area first.

Our first group of mothers have all been affected by the HIV and AIDS epidemic. For instance Ida, a grandmother, has lost three of her children to AIDS and is caring for seven orphaned grandchildren. Maipelo, another grandmother, has lost a daughter and sister and is helping to care for five children. Letia and Rose have both lost sisters and have been left with the responsibility for their children. All of these women have very few resources and they and the children in their care are therefore benefitting from the Mothers for All income-generation projects. Other women in similar situations have been inspired by the success and enthusiasm of this first group and have asked to join the group. Mothers for All therefore now has a second group in Selebi-Phikwe.

Meet our very first group of mothers, all proudly modelling their beaded necklaces: Maipelo, Betty, Rose, Ida and Letia