The province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa is recognised as having one of the highest rates of HIV infection in the world. High rates of unemployment and low levels of literacy also characterise many of the communities in the province.

Thandanani Children’s Foundation works in 16 communities in the Msunduzi (Pietermaritzburg)^{Copesville, Happyvalley, Sobantu, Slangspruit, Willowfountain, Snathing, Dambuza, Esigodini, Caluza, Pata A and Pata B} and Richmond Districts^{Ward2, Ward 3, Ward 5, Ward 6 Ndaleni, Ward 6 Simozomeni, Ward 7 Phatheni and Ward 7 Other} in the midlands of KwaZulu-Natal.

The Msunduzi Municipality

The Msunduzi Municipality is located in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, approximately 80km, inland from Durban. The Municipality is the second largest urban centre in KwaZulu-Natal, and includes the city of Pietermaritzburg (the administrative capital of the Province), and surrounding peri-urban and semi-rural areas.

The Municipality has a population of over 523 000 inhabitants, the majority of whom live in Pietermaritzburg ( 176 590); the semi-rural area of Vulindlela ( 145 410) and the township of Edendale ( 197 320) where Thandanani does much of its work. (Msunduzi HIV/AIDS Strategy 2003 Document)

In 2000, Pietermaritzburg had an economically active population of approximately 250 000. Of these 49% were unemployed. (Quarterly Economic and Business Report - Pietermaritzburg and Umgundlovu District - 1st Quarter 2004)

There is also a high prevalence of HIV/AIDS in the area. In 2001 36% of women visiting antenatal clinics were HIV+. Most AIDS related deaths occur in the 20 - 39 age group. By 2010 it is estimated that KwaZulu-Natal will have 500 000 orphans and Pietermaritzburg 50 000.

The Richmond Municipality

Richmond is situated approximately 44 kilometres south of Pietermaritzburg. The area is divided into seven wards.

According to the 1996 census Richmond has a population of 62 108 inhabitants. 38% of the population are younger than 15. Educational levels are particularly low. Only 40% of the population have progressed to secondary school and just 5% have matriculated. Only 19% of the total population are formally employed.

Richmond has had a particularly violent recent past. In the 1990's Richmond experienced such high levels of political violence that the military was used in an attempt to bring the situation under control. This, together with a high prevalence of HIV/AIDS, has increased the vulnerability of children living in the area.