PIP: This article comments on the methods of reducing mother-to-child transmission of the HIV disease in the countries of Africa. Well-known interventions such as Cesarean sections, alternative feeding options, and antiretroviral drugs (zidovudine, lamivudine and nevirapine) have brought vertical transmission of HIV under a reasonable level of control where financial resources, technical infrastructure, and HIV testing exist. In sub-Saharan Africa, these effective interventions are beyond the current capacity of the country. However, the report explains that Africa is far from powerless to prevent vertical transmission of the disease. The countries already have commitment of political leaders, increased technical and financial resources, coordination of international support, integration into existing health services, and a combined approach to the problem. In addition, pilot projects and effective interventions have been implemented in the countries. Nevertheless, two strategies need urgent investigation. These include the use of a combination of nevirapine and zidovudine/lamivudine and an investigation of different approaches to the problem of HIV transmission through breast-feeding.