green grass field with trees under blue sky with white clouds during daytime

Zambia's Resilience

Showcasing PEPFAR's impact on HIV treatment.

THE FILM
This documentary film delves into the global AIDS crisis, centering its narrative on the experiences of people in Zambia, the producers’ country of origin. Given the potential loss of funding for vital programs like PEPFAR, we intend to demonstrate both its successes and areas for improvement, thereby galvanizing continued and future support. By sharing the powerful stories of individuals in both urban and rural Zambia who have faced the devastating impact of HIV, we illuminate the human cost of this disease. The film will also feature insights from Zambian and U.S. experts and policymakers, weaving together personal narratives with historical context and factual analysis. This is the first chapter in a planned series of documentaries, each focusing on a different country and the ongoing global fight against AIDS.

The film will consist of the following chapters:
1) Backstory – History of HIV in Africa
2) What is PEPFAR
3) What has PEPFAR done in Zambia
4) What has PEPFAR done in other countries
5) What is the future of PEPFAR
6) How does it affect the rest of the world
7) Positive actions that can be taken to continue and finish the work

  • Demographic Devastation:

    • Like slavery, HIV/AIDS decimated the most productive age group (15-45), leaving a population of the very young and old.

    • This loss crippled the post-independence generation, impacting skilled workers, professionals, and future leaders.

  • Socio-Cultural Breakdown:

    • The epidemic strained and broke down traditional support systems, leaving countless orphans and overburdening elderly caregivers.

    • Stigma, misinformation, and fear led to social isolation and accusations, further damaging communities.

  • Economic Ruin:

    • The loss of a productive workforce severely impacted agriculture, the informal sector, and overall economic growth.

    • Healthcare systems were overwhelmed, diverting resources and exacerbating existing problems.

    • The creative arts, and music industries were greatly affected.

  • National Crisis:

    • The epidemic created a sense of helplessness, with inadequate resources and a lack of understanding.

    • The turning point came with increased awareness and the eventual arrival of PEPFAR, offering hope and treatment.

  • Long Term Effects:

    • The economic and social damage done by the epidemic has had lasting repercussions.

Key Considerations

Impact

Exploring PEPFAR's transformative journey in Zambia.

Stories

Hope

info@zambiaswilltolive.com

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