ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA JOINED THE REST IN THE WORLD IN RECOGNIZING WORLD AIDS DAY 2024

The Ministry of Health, Wellness, Social Transformation, and the Environment officially commenced activities commemorating World AIDS Day, led by the AIDS Secretariat.

The theme for World AIDS Day 2024, ‘Take the Rights Path,’ highlights the critical role of human rights in the fight against HIV/AIDS. It calls for the removal of social and legal barriers that prevent people living with HIV from accessing healthcare, support, and treatment.

The event was graced by the presence of Senator Hon. Michael Joseph, Junior Minister of Health, Wellness, Social Transformation, and the Environment, and key health sector leaders including Acting Permanent Secretary Ms. Marsha Joseph, Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr. Teriann Joseph, and Dr. Maria Pereira, the HIV and AIDS Clinical Care Coordinator.

Also in attendance were staff members from the Ministry of Health and the AIDS Secretariat, along with Public Health Nurse Quallis and representatives from key Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), including the Multicultural Exchange for Sustainable Health (MESH), the HIV Humanitarian Health (3H) Network, the Antigua Planned Parenthood Association (APPA), and the Women Against Rape (WAR).

The opening ceremony highlighted the Ministry’s commitment to reducing HIV/AIDS prevalence, ensuring equitable access to care, and fostering community-driven solutions.

The AIDS Secretariat reaffirmed its dedication to supporting those living with HIV and spearheading education and prevention initiatives.

The Ministry extends its gratitude to all stakeholders for their continued collaboration in tackling HIV/AIDS and invites the public to participate in planned activities throughout the month, designed to promote awareness, prevention, and advocacy.