ABSTRACT
This chapter explores what HIV/AIDS means to some Haya villagers, how they understand and represent the disease, what impact it has had on their families and well-being, and how they have taken initiatives to reclaim their once rich heritage in the face of depressing losses of family and friends. The social and economic consequences of HIV/AIDS have been terrible, even horrific. There is a plethora of studies that document economic disruption and dislocation. Virtually every interview at some point turned into a self-reflective discussion about HIV/AIDS. One concern that emerges with attempts to explain HIV/AIDS is a consistent view for some that the absence of traditional political authorities is a root cause underlying the spread of HIV/AIDS. One of the most profound changes to accompany HIV/AIDS is the socialization of children and the composition of households, and the burdens that come with caring for grandchildren and nephews and nieces.
