Pretoria - President Jacob Zuma has welcomed all international delegates who will be attending the 21st International AIDS Conference (AIDS 2016) in Durban this week.
“The President said South Africa is also truly pleased to host the conference during this period when the country has been making progress in its response to the disease since the policy turnaround in 2009,” the Presidency said.
The quality of life of people living with HIV has improved dramatically since the policy turnaround in 2009.
“HIV positive people are living longer and lead healthier lives, thanks to wider access to treatment. South Africa has significantly reduced the mother-to-child transmission of HIV, thus ensuring healthier babies,” the Presidency said.
Recently, government launched Phila, a massive HIV prevention campaign targeted primarily at young women and girls. The Presidency said focusing on HIV prevention is important for the country as it is working towards the goal of an HIV-free generation.
The President has also noted with appreciation, the positive and constructive working relationship and cooperation that exists between local stakeholders in the fight against AIDS, under the auspices of South African National AIDS Council (SANAC).
"This patriotic collaboration has contributed immensely to the progress that the country has scored, and also holds us in good stead as we continue waging the battle against HIV, AIDS and TB,'' President Zuma said.
He has also extended his gratitude to the United Nations AIDS programme (UNAIDS) for the support provided to South Africa in this battle.
This support has contributed to the progress that the country has made, the Presidency said.
The South African delegation, under the leadership of Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa, will share lessons from the progress made, and also learn from other delegations on what they could be doing better.
The Deputy President, who is also the Chairperson of the South African National AIDS Council (SANAC) will officially open the conference in Durban today.
"More importantly, the conference begins on Nelson Mandela Day. It provides an opportunity to pay tribute to Madiba for the role he played in advancing the fight against AIDS and promoting care and support for those infected and affected. We wish local and international delegates a successful AIDS 2016 Conference,'' President Zuma said.
The conference will take place from Monday until Friday. – SAnews.gov.za
