This paper examines the potential impact of HIV and AIDS on different levels of South African society (individual, household, and national) over time. Using differences in demographic projections to guide the analysis, the prospective implications of HIV and AIDS on households, society, economy and nation are discussed and issues that could influence or mitigate those possible impacts are examined. The challenges that South Africa is likely face due to the effects of its AIDS-related excess mortality are outlined and the conclusion is drawn that programmes delivering a broader variety of services than are currently offered are needed
