KwaZulu-Natal Health MEC Peggy Nkonyeni is attempting to introduce traditional medicine for AIDS patients at a hospice with the help of traditional healers who are opposed to antiretroviral medication.

The Free State health department has confirmed that it has been '€œdelaying'€ placing about 400 patients on antiretrovirals (ARVs) since the beginning of November, but denies that this was due to financial mismanagement in the province.

Africa has become the main target of tobacco corporations which are being driven out of the developed countries by tougher laws, high taxes and more consumer awareness of the dangers of smoking.

Gloria'€™s eyes open wide as she reaches out her hand and pleads: '€œDon'€™t forget me. Don'€™t forget me. Don'€™t ever forget me.'€ Her voice is hoarse from the thrush that coats her throat and mouth. Her pyjamas hangs off one skinny shoulder, as she slumps in a chair next to the bed she has just wet.