By Isatou Fofana
In anticipation of the upcoming World AIDS Day, observed annually on December 1st, the National Aids Secretariat and its partners convened a press conference to discuss the significance of this global event. This year’s focus underscores the crucial advancements in the HIV response, emphasizing the protection of human rights as fundamental to achieving health outcomes. Alpha Khan, the Director of the National Aids Secretariat, highlighted the importance of marking World AIDS Day, noting significant scientific progress in HIV treatment. Mr. Khan highlighted the availability of highly effective Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), which plays a critical role in suppressing the virus that causes AIDS.
He reassured stakeholders of the government’s unwavering commitment to fostering an enabling environment through policies and actions aimed at reinforcing the gains achieved in the national HIV response. Sirra Horeja Ndow, the UNAIDS Country Director, echoed the sentiment of accessibility, urging that all individuals should have access to necessary health services, including HIV prevention, treatment, and care. “The world can end AIDS if everyone’s rights are protected,” she said, emphasizing that human rights should be at the core of global health strategies. Mrs. Ndow expressed optimism that, with community leadership and human rights advocacy, AIDS could be eradicated as a public health threat by 2030.
Further insights were provided by the Program Manager of the National AIDS Control Program, Pa Ousman Bah, who noted the prevalence of HIV in The Gambia remains statistically low at 1.3%. However, he cautioned that certain regions, particularly Basse, Bansang, and Brikama, demonstrate disproportionately high rates of the virus. This highlights the necessity for targeted interventions in areas experiencing higher prevalence. As stakeholders prepare for the commemoration, there is a collective hope that increased awareness and adherence to human rights standards will drive the global effort to eliminate AIDS, ensuring that no one is left behind in the fight against this formidable public health challenge.
