Approximately 20,000 maps detailing HIV/AIDS clinic locations are being distributed to truck drivers across Africa, thanks to a new initiative.

African trucking routes have long served to spread the virus across borders. The maps - in English for east and southern Africa, and in English and French for west Africa - pinpoint 160 clinics run by more than 40 governments and charities that provide free AIDS services.

"For the first time, truckers can see where they can access health services along major trucking corridors and transport hubs on the subcontinent," said Paul Matthew, Africa director for North Star Alliance, which sets up clinics on highways and at border posts. NSA is a partnership started by the courier company TNT and the UN World Food Program.

NSA's foundation initiated the project, working with risk-mapping firm Maplecroft and petroleum giant Royal Dutch Shell. "Our research showed categorically that the spread of HIV moved down transportation routes," said Maplecroft spokesperson Jason McGeown. Shell, which funded the project, said truck drivers' health directly impacts their business in Africa. Organizers hope to distribute the maps to truckers across the continent.