For the first time there are signs that HIV incidence in Africa may have stabilised - albeit at still harrowing levels. After two decades of experience combating the disease, at least the key elements of an effective response are now clear. Armed with these measures, the hope is that the march of the HIV/AIDS epidemic can be halted, and reversed. But there is still an awfully long way to go.

One small step takes place from 25-27 June, when world leaders meet at UN headquarters in New York to demonstrate their commitment to a global strategy against the HIV/AIDS crisis. The UN Special Session on HIV/AIDS will demand action over a range of priority areas. They include political leadership, prevention, care, support and treatment, respect for the rights of those living with HIV/AIDS and a hugely increased level of resources.

This IRIN WebSpecial examines some of the issues surrounding HIV/AIDS in Africa, ahead of the UN Special Session. From Angola, IRIN looks at the impact of war on the spread of the disease. The fear is that any eventual peace in the 26-year-old conflict may mark the beginning of a new battle, this time against the virus. Meanwhile, as with most cities across Africa, Friday night is party night in Kenya's capital Nairobi.

But, some DJs are trying hard to spread the message of safer sex among the country's most vulnerable group - the youth. In the fight against HIV/AIDS in South Africa, big business is beginning to lead the way. IRIN reports on initiatives by the mining companies to assist their workers. Zambia is also a role model for youth-targeted initiatives. As a result, HIV infection among teenagers in Lusaka has slowed by nearly half in some areas over the past few years. And finally, IRIN takes a fresh look at the crisis of AIDS orphans in South Africa.