When She is Gone: Child Care Plans of Mozambican Mothers with Terminal Illnesses

This study explored the child welfare plans of 102 mothers with terminal illnesses (predominantly AIDS) in rural Mozambique. The majority of mothers assumed that after their death the extended family would care for the children, but none offered a clearly identified plan. Many hoped that the government would provide for the children's education, food, and health care, although very little assistance is available currently. The vast majority of the women reported a preference for placement in an orphanage over other options, due to the perception that the children will be better fed and educated there. Ironically, all orphanages in Mozambique are at full capacity. The findings suggest an urgent need for collaboration at community, national, and international levels to meet the needs of orphans. Policy, practice, and research implications are explored.