As Africa director for Christian Aid, I am often asked what indigenous ministries are doing about the AIDS epidemic in Africa. Although the ministries we support do not focus solely on AIDS, they do address the disease with a spiritual and holistic approach that has produced lasting results.

Focusing narrowly on one aspect of a person’s life, as in the case of AIDS, might provide a source of recognition and financial help; however, the African ministries we support are vitally involved in all facets of men’s lives.

Christian Aid-supported ministries share the gospel, plant churches and disciple believers. Following the example of Christ, they attempt to alleviate physical suffering while sharing about true spiritual healing. Whether meeting needs for water, food, education, disaster relief, medical help, or disease prevention, native missionaries do all in Jesus’ name. They save lives, both spiritually and physically.

The cultures of most African tribes are not conducive to sexual abstinence and marital fidelity. Rather, sexual promiscuity and polygamy are actually encouraged.

The Gando tribe of Benin “initiates” children into adulthood by forcing them to sleep outside the home from age 6. Intended to build strength and resilience, what results is child pregnancy and the spread of disease, as these young children spend each night with different partners. Typically, adultery is also expected and accepted.