Heterosexually infected Africans are the second largest group affected by HIV in the country, according to the National Aids Trust.

More than a thousand are thought to have Aids and most children born with HIV are African.

Many come from countries in southern and central Africa which have been devastated by Aids.

The government's money will be managed by the National Aids Trust and will go towards community groups which give advice and information about the virus.

Public health minister Tessa Jowell said: "In England, African communities have been particularly affected by HIV and Aids.

"Since the start of the epidemic, the African voluntary sector has played an important role in providing support for those affected.

"This has included addressing issues around stigma, cultural sensitivities and access to services."

Marginalisation

The National Aids Trust says that, for a variety of reasons, Africans often approach health services when the virus' progress is fairly far advanced.

One reason is that they may have uncertain immigration status and their HIV status may not be the first worry on their minds.

They may also feel marginalised from social care and health services.

The trust aims to help community-based organisations provide advice and information about Aids prevention and safer sex.

Its programme is split into four areas - mentoring, training, consultancy and publications.

The government says African voluntary groups will be consulted as part of its HIV and Aids health promotion work for African communities.

It is also supporting Enfield and Haringey Health Authority in devising ways to spread HIV information to people from sub-Saharan Africa.