AIDS epidemics continue to threaten the livelihoods of millions of people in sub-Saharan Africa. This book presents information collected by empirical research in a range of African countries, and shows how well-grounded conclusions on trends, impacts and local responses can be applied to the design of HIV-responsive policies and programmes. 'This book is a collection of cutting edge pieces of work on the complex, dynamic and uncertain interactions between HIV and rural livelihoods. The papers bring together the blends of practice, policy and research that public policy on HIV/AIDS demands and because of this they achieve the rare distinction of being both grounded and ground breaking.' Lawrence Haddad, Director, Institute of Development Studies 'A collection of well written articles that together provide an understanding of the AIDS epidemic and the extent to which it has impacted rural livelihoods. This is a must-read - it is well formatted, insightful and absolutely informative.' Hon. Prof. Ruth Oniang'o, Great Lakes University of Kisumu, Kenya