In autumn 2006, UNICEF Iceland travelled with the band Sigur Rós to Swaziland to visit UNICEF’s HIV-projects. The journey affected the band and in November they opened a photo exhibition of their photographs from the trip. The exhibition was titled: The deserted generation: Swaziland through the eyes of Sigur Rós. Photos from this visit can be seen on this page.

The main reason for traveling to Swaziland was to film stories for the Red Nose Day fundraising television show in Iceland. It was no coincidence that Swaziland was chosen for the filming of HIV-projects. The country has the highest HIV prevalence rate in the world - almost 40%.

Over 70 thousand children are orphans because of AIDS, and among them at least 15 thousand live alone and have little chance to provide for themselves. Besides living in poverty, these children suffer from anxiety, depression and neglect.

Support to Swaziland Positive Living

Following the band's visit, an HIV-programme was supported through UNICEF. It focuses on helping a network of HIV-positive people called Swaziland Positive Living (SWAPOL). They provide home based care and support to the sick and their children.

The funds from Iceland have already been utilized to provide prevention of mother to child transmission (PMTCT) services and pediatric care. In the second half of 2008, UNICEF Swaziland will use the funds to further strengthen PMTCT and pediatric care services and supply the care givers with medical supplies. Furthermore, SWAPOL will be provided with a vehicle to continue its outreach services.