World AIDS day celebrated in Lesotho

On the first of December every year, World AIDS Day is celebrated.  This day is an opportunity for people to unite in the fight against HIV/AIDS, to remember those who have died of the disease and to celebrate accomplishments, such as increased access to treatment and prevention services.

According to the Lesotho Demographic Health Survey (LHDS) 2009, the prevalence of HIV, currently estimated at 23%, places Lesotho as the third worst affected country in the world, and the poorest of the three countries.

The theme for World AIDS Day 2011 was "Getting to Zero." After 30 years of the global fight against HIV/AIDS, this year the focus is on achieving 3 targets: Zero new HIV infections. Zero discrimination. Zero AIDS-related deaths. In Lesotho World AIDS Day (WAD) National commemoration was marked on the 1st December, 2011 at Ha Mabote in, Maseru District

Key speaker on the day included the Right Honourable Prime Minister, the Honourable Minister of Health and Social Welfare, the UN Resident Coordinator and the President of People living with HIV and AIDS. Alongside the aspiration of an AIDS free generation in Lesotho, the speakers identified the UNAIDS goal of zero new HIV infections, zero discrimination, and zero AIDS-related deaths as a common vision for stakeholders.

The key note speech was delivered by His Majesty King Letsie III, who reflected on the accomplishments achieved thus far and highly commended all those involved in what he seen as remarkable strides made in the fight against HIV. However, he also expressed his concern that HIV is no longer considered a crisis in Lesotho and urged “all of you to roll up your sleeves and double up our efforts in reducing the Number of new HIV infections as the theme of the day clearly states”    

His Majesty King Letsie III signing the Declaration

The highlight of the celebration was a signing ceremony where a declaration of commitment was signed by the Right Honourable Prime Minister and His Majesty King Letsie III to show Lesotho’s commitment in scaling up zero new infections, zero discrimination and zero related AIDS deaths by 2015. Fiona Coyle, HIV & AIDS Officer, UNDP Lesotho