ACET, the Christian HIV and Aids charity, is calling on the church to remember Zimbabwe's children on World Aids Day on 1 December.

The charity is an international group of independent organisations working to reduce the rates of new HIV infection and care for those affected by HIV and Aids, including Aids orphans in 23 countries.

In a country where an estimated 21 per cent of the population is infected with HIV, ACET is hoping that its new Lighten the darkness appeal will go some way to halting the spread of infection and bring much needed support to sufferers, children in particular.

Renowned Christian speaker and ACET founder Dr Patrick Dixon, said: "Aids continues to devastate Zimbabwe, but the church is making a huge difference."

ACET's partner in Zimbabwe, The Matilda Project, is caring for hundreds of Aids orphans who would otherwise be left with few opportunities in life by providing them with food and paying their school fees for hundreds of Aids orphans.

Inflation is skyrocketing in Zimbabwe at over 6000% p.a. and many supermarkets are struggling to fill their shelves, meaning that poverty and hunger are widespread with 83 per cent of the population live on less than $1 per day.

ACET is appealing to people to donate to its appeal, which will go to supporting the Matilda Project's work. Just £15 will provide one child with a school breakfast for 12 months.

Sir Cliff Richard, for many years ACET's patron, has lent his support to the new appeal, saying, "ACET has been where I think Jesus would have been in Zimbabwe, with the poor and suffering. Please help them to bring light to more darkened lives through this appeal."