The increase in the spread of the HIV virus may not be an epidemic in the United States, but in African countries such as Botswana, an estimated 70 percent of the population infected with the virus.

The African Student Association is doing its part to help combat the problem. For the rest of the semester, the ASA will hold a fundraising campaign, with the proceeds from the drive being used to purchase medicine and other necessary items.

“I feel it is important that people are aware that this is a serious problem,” ASA president Sunke Aroworade said. “The U.S. is fortunate because they have the resources to help their citizens. Africa doesn’t have that.”

A large entertainment and variety show will be the highlight of the fundraiser. It will be held at 7 p.m. April 26 at the Holmes Student Center’s Duke Ellington Ballroom. On-Point Entertainment, another campus organization, is co-sponsoring the event.

Aroworade said the group has set up large water bottles in the Student Association office, located in Suite 160 of the Campus Life Building, Williston Hall and the Chance office, located at the Center for Black Studies.

“We encourage people to donate their loose change or however much they can to this worthy cause,” Aroworade said.

People also can donate summer clothing, non-perishable food items and children’s books. Items can be dropped off at the Center for Black Studies, located along West Lincoln Highway.

“This is only the beginning,” she said. “There is so much more to do. We are going to visit local businesses and see if they will help out.°

Aroworade said there are many factors contributing to the HIV virus increase, including poverty in Botswana, a lack of medical attention and a lack of education.

“Africa is doing what they can to help their people but it is not enough,” she said. “It is important that people in this country, especially Africans and African-Americans, do something about it.”

The African Student Association has been an NIU organization for more than 20 years. Its goal is to bring knowledge about Africans and African-Americans to the community and provide different programming and exposure about African culture.

The cost of the variety show is $5. People interested in attending can call Sunke Aroworade at 753-5466.