Gebremedhin Ayalew is a Sunday school teacher at Maychew Church who regularly speaks to his congregation about getting an HIV test.

Most do, but do not tell Mr Gebremedhin their status. Mulugeta Sisay, a 31-year-old farmer who now heads an association of 130 people living with HIV, was one who did.

"I tell Mulugeta that life with HIV is possible," says Mr Gebremedhin.

"A lot of people living with the virus are afraid that they might be stigmatized if they come out."