Selebi-Phikwe is in the eastern region of Botswana. It has a population of about 35,000 people, many of whom work for the local copper-nickel mine. Recent ante-natal statistics revealed that over 50% of pregnant mothers were HIV-positive in some of the poorer settlements within the town. Selebi-Phikwe has the highest incidence of HIV infection in Botswana and therefore has the highest relative number of orphans and vulnerable children. This is 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. Tshuarelo has now become a productive member of this group.

Meet our Selebi-Phikwe mothers all proudly modelling their first beaded necklaces:

Maipelo, Betty, Rose, Ida, Letia, and Tshuarelo