Young people are central in the battle against HIV/AIDS. Each day 5,000-6,000 new infections occur among young people age 15-24, representing half of new infections. The disease disproportionately affects young females
rates of infection among girls in the hardest-hit countries of Africa are 1.3 to 12 times higher than for boys of the same age. Young people are also the best hope for fighting the epidemic
where HIV prevalence has fallen, youth have led the way by delaying sex, reducing partners, and increasing condom use. As one of Africa's largest donors for HIV/AIDS, the World Bank can help ensure that programs to contend with the disease adequately focus on young people. This study, based on six in-depth country case examples, examines the experience of the World Bank in addressing the youth dimension of the HIV/AIDS epidemic through its Multi-Country HIV/AIDS Program (MAP) in Africa. The study hopes to provide further guidance to the Bank on improving the effectiveness of its investments in youth and HIV/AIDS programming.