Big Brother Africa is a fever that is infecting all of sub-Saharan Africa, grabbing the attention of millions of viewers and giving rise to passionate debate. ‘How is it possible to broadcast live the love stories of those kids, their kisses, their talking about sex’ - some people are saying - ‘in a continent where the young people are being decimated by AIDS?’

For Henry, Nikinzi, Mama Joyce, the lexicon of AIDS is not associated with fear, shame, denial, death, and thus with silence, but has to do with awareness, advice, comfort, care and hope.

Why you should watch it

This film manages to punch far above its weight. Telling small stories, of individuals in a continent decimated by a deadly virus, where the influence of the West brings the frivolities of television, but no real sign of hope. Touching and packed with truths about human nature in the face of adversity, we hear from people talking frankly, bravely and unashamed about their lives, their hopes and their future.

Further information on HIV and AIDS in Africa:

Background information on HIV and AIDS can be found on Wikipedia, as well as information specific to Africa , the factors that have allowed it to spread so rapidly and the success of Uganda’s response. A detailed country by country look at the HIV and AIDS epidemic in Africa can be found on the AVERT website, as well as information on how to help. Aids In Africa and Global Issues have more on HIV and AIDS in Africa, while Aids Map and Aids Alliance have more general information and current news.