In Africa, HIV is spread predominantly through heterosexual contact. Creating

laws to stem HIV transmission among intravenous drug users is far different than

punishing users for what is deemed to be a criminal act in and of itself. The epidemic did not become pervasive due to drug use - and the laws they create will

likely be of a preventative nature and not merely punitive. I sincerely doubt that any

law regarding drug use will have a substantial impact on the crisis South Africa is facing. Lou - your example does not prove the point you intended. Not by a long shot. It is a better example of the dangers of absolutist thinking. I recommend looking into "cause and effect" relationships before making such claims.