Ethiopia is sub-Saharan Africa's second most populous country and one of it's poorest, with a population of over 73 million people and a GDP per capita of $115 USD. With a prevalence rate of 2.8-6.7%, an estimated 950,000-2,500,000 people are living with HIV/AIDS. About a third of the HIV patients are co-infected with TB. The prevalence rate is higher among women between the ages of 15-24. The epidemic has resulted in over one million orphans.

The HIWOT HIV/AIDS Prevention, Care and Support Organization (HAPCSO) was established as a local NGO in the capital of Addis Ababa in 1999 by nurse Tibebe Maco as an indigenous, community-based response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic.

HAPCSO involves 65,000 people and includes nine kebeles (sub-districts), located in the southwestern outskirts of Addis Ababa. The district is known for the settlement of leprosy patients and their families from various parts of Ethiopia who come to receive treatment at the local hospital. This area represents the city's most impoverished settlements, characterized by overpopulation, unemployment and destitution.

Over the years HAPCSO has grown to provide a wide variety of programs including home-based care to HIV/AIDS patients; care, medical treatment and education for orphans and vulnerable children (OVC); prevention work through peer educators, drama and song clubs for youths; STI management and treatment, and community horticultural programs. HAPCSO provides clear and concise information that will empower the general population to be actively involved in HIV/AIDS prevention. They work in partnership with various community leaders dedicated to breaking the silence and stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS and taking action to stop its spread through an integrated, community-based approach.