By 2008, roughly fifty million Africans have become infected with HIV and AIDS, with more than twenty-two million having already died. HIV and AIDS continues to be a major developmental challenge, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, which is the epicentre of the epidemic. As of December 2005, it was estimated that 24.5 million people were living with HIV in Africa, accounting for 64% of all people living with HIV in the world (NIAID 2007). Since AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) was first reported in both Africa and the United States in 1981 it has become a major worldwide epidemic. It is caused by HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus), which kills or damages the cells of the body’s immune system.

The Journal of Constructive Theology is a semi-annual publication of the Centre for Constructive Theology, an initiative of the former Faculty of Theology, University of Durban-Westville. From 2004 its articles will focus on researched papers, which are relevant to gender religion and theology in Africa. The editorial committee will consider for publication submissions of a scholarly standard from any of the theological disciplines or related fields of inquiry, which provide useful perspectives in the area of gender, religion and theology in Africa.

JOURNAL OF CONSTRUCTIVE THEOLOGY
Gender, Religion and Theology in Africa