…targeting to end AIDS by 2030
BY EPN REPORTER
MBABANE – His Excellency the Prime Minister Cleopas Sipho Dlamini has received cordially received U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator and PEPFAR Special Representative for Health Diplomacy Ambassador Dr. John Nkengasong.
According to a statement released by Government Spokesperson Alpheous Nxumalo, the Prime Minister and Dr Nkengasong discussed Eswatini’s achievements in terms of its HIV and AIDS response. They also discussed the support afforded to Eswatini by the United States Government in various programmes.
“We know that Eswatini’s success has been through concerted efforts and the role played by the US Government through PEPFAR as one of our key partners in the Eswatini multisectoral HIV and AIDS response,” said the Prime Minister as quoted in the statement.
According to Nxumlo, the two also discussed the Kingdom of Eswatini’s plans to launch a new multisectoral HIV and AIDS strategy, which is aimed at meeting the global AIDS targets of ending AIDS by the year 2030.
“The Strategy will focus on three key areas: a) AIDS response sustainability: It will explore efficient ways to support and mainstream AIDS programs into health and other developmental national plans. b) Reducing new infections more particularly among the youth and other vulnerable populations. The emphasis shall be on structural drives such as poverty, unemployment and Gender-based violence. c) Continue to strengthen health systems and explore new technical technologies such as digital health,” further read the statement on the diplomatic engagement.
The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to the US for assisting through the different programmes, and further extolled the progress made by Eswatini in combating HIV and AIDS.
“The country remains proud of the National Multisectoral HIV and AIDS response for the landmark of altering a crisis into a milestone. This has been achieved through the development of strategic plans or frameworks which provide the backbone for the success achieved by the country,” added the Prime Minister.
“The country remains proud of the National Multisectoral HIV and AIDS response for the landmark of altering a crisis into a milestone. This has been achieved through the development of strategic plans or frameworks which provide the backbone for the success achieved by the country,” His Excellency continued.
