ABSTRACT
This chapter looks at the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) epidemic and what is driving it in this small African country. It suggests that the state is crucial, both in fueling the epidemic and in addressing it, and also considers why the epidemic is so serious and what features of Swazi society have made it so. The chapter outlines the lack of opportunities for young people; the inability of youth to stay in school; women's lack of power; the breakdown of societal norms; mobility; poverty; inequality; and the uncertain economic and political transitions. The structure of the economy and the type of employment available has implications for the spread of human immunodeficiency virus in Swaziland. Many of the Swazi migrants traveling to the mines and farms of South Africa will find themselves in a social and economic situation similar to that of Carletonville, and some women from Swaziland will end up as sex workers in comparable communities.
