Using feminist theory and comparative analysis, this thesis will investigate why women in sub-Saharan Africa are more vulnerable to HIV/AIDS than men. Among non-governmental organizations and inter-governmental organizations, HIV/AIDS has always been a gender issue because it is clear that women are more vulnerable to the disease, socially, culturally and biologically. Through two case studies -- one on Uganda where the HIV prevalence rate has dropped considerably in recent years, and one on Botswana, where the HIV prevalence rate has drastically increased in recent years â I will shed light on women's vulnerability to HIV, how this vulnerability can be counteracted, and how these counteractive efforts are implemented by women and state governments (if they are implemented at all). It is hypothesized that the empowerment of women may stifle the spread of HIV.