On November 30, 2023, The National AIDS Authority (NAA) commemorated the World AIDS Day at the Peacebuilding of the Council of the Minister. The event, themed “Let the communities lead,” brought together key stakeholders, community members, and people living with HIV/AIDS to reflect on the progress and challenges remaining in the fight against HIV/AIDS, which aims to contribute to accomplish the 95 95 95 targets.
The event honorable presided by H.E Vongsey Vissoth, Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister in charge of the office of the Council of Ministers represent Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet and Louk Chumteav Pich Chanmonny Hun Manet together with other high official including H.E Ieng Moly, Senior Minister and the chair of the National AIDS Authority (NAA), Patricia Ongpin, Country Director of UNAIDS, Luk Chumteav Pum Chanty Ny, Secretary General of CRC, Dr. Choub Sok Chamreun, representative of HACC, and Ms. Han Sienghorn, Representative of people living with HIV and AIDS.
Key highlights of the Event
- Recognizing Progress: The event highlighted the significant strides made in addressing HIV/AIDS, including increased access to treatment, prevention services, and reduced stigma. Speakers acknowledged the tireless efforts of healthcare workers, community organizations, and people living with HIV/AIDS who have contributed to these achievements.
- Addressing Challenges: Despite the progress, challenges persist, particularly in reaching vulnerable populations including young generation, ensuring adherence to treatment, tackling HIV-related stigma and discrimination and the sustainability. Speakers emphasized the need for continued investment in HIV/AIDS programs from domestic funds, targeted prevention interventions, and community-led approaches. Social contract aims to get funding from the Government to support NGO and CBOs was also highlighted in the statement of the NAA and NGO.
- Empowering Communities: A central theme of the event was the importance of empowering communities to take ownership of the HIV/AIDS response. Speakers highlighted the crucial role of community-based organizations in providing prevention service, care and support and joining in the monitoring in all the process of the planning, implementation and the monitoring on HIV and AIDS services.