Qualitative study was conducted in Addis Ababa to investigate factors predisposing streetrnchildren to HIV/AIDS among children aged 5-18 years,to explore individual behavioralrnfactors that increase sexual risk behaviors and to assess the socio economic and societalrninfluence on the street children sexual behavior .The participant were selected usingrnhomogenous sampling and informants who are familiar with the target population ,culturernand have rich information were selected .The study has triangulated focus grouprndiscussion ,key informant interview and non participatory observation using open endedrnthematize question guide, interview guide and checklists respectively.rnData analysis was done manually in the field and using computer soft ware for handlingrnqualitative data .HIV/AIDS was a relatively low concern to the street children due to theirrnpreoccupation with survival and adverse environment, levels of HIV/AIDS knowledgernwas relatively high, though most not put it in practice because of mood change due tornsubstance use and alcohol intake. Majority consider themselves to be victims of therndeadly disease HIV/AIDS, moreover stigmatized by the community and governmentrnorgans .They believe condom use reduces sexual pleasure and perceive sex to be morernnatural.rnThe driving force that put them to use substance and alcohol were the usual and regularrnonset of depression ,stress ,boredom and to relive hunger ,cope with harsh realities of lifern,to avert fear ,sad and to get confidence .Peer to be sexually active ,families tendency tornmonitor their children were found to be associated with risky sexual practices ,childrenrntendency to chew chat ,smoke cigarette ganja ,shisha and drink alcohol were reported asrnthe factor putting street children at risk of unsafe sexual practices and HIV infection, girlsrnin the street are at higher risk of rape and its consequences, ,HIV/AIDS and STIs.rnHomosexuality was also evident among some street boys.rnPromoting media education, focusing on child rearing practice and peer education to getrnchildren out of substance abuse and unsafe sex by creating street based activities and minirnproject scheme. Appropriate and consistent IEC/BCC target oriented need to berndisseminated , to this specific social group, more over banning all substance offeringrnhouses, chewing in the street, and its circulation. Changing the outlook and mistreatmentrnof children by community and government organs to wards the street children