By Doh James Sonkey
Deputy Chief of Mission at the US Embassy in Cameroon, John G. Robinson has reiterated the promise made by the United States of America to end HIV/AIDS as a public health threat in the world by 2030. He was speaking last December 4, 2024 in the Conviviality Hall of the National Museum in Yaounde, during the celebration of World AIDS Day with a reflection on the progress made, the commitment made to those affected by HIV/AIDS and the challenges faced on this journey.
The US Embassy official cited that, ‘‘over the past 21 years, PEPFAR, the U.S President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief has led the way in ensuring equitable access to treatment and care for all affected by HIV/AIDS, anchored by the belief that access to life-saving treatment, prevention, and care is a fundamental right.’’
He said steadfast efforts are used to ensure that no more lives are lost to preventable or treatable conditions.
The Deputy Chief of Mission at US Embassy in Yaounde concluded that ‘‘we would be far from achieving our 2030 goal without the healthcare providers, researchers, advocates and organizations who have made strides in prevention, treatment and awareness. There are nearly 40 million people living with AIDS worldwide.’’
Within the framework of the United States President’s Emergency Plan and AIDS Relief, Cameroonian and Americans are in partnership to fight against HIV/AIDS.
The President of the Association of Vulnerable Persons, Baha Bruno, thanked the government and American Embassy for the constant support given to persons living with HIV/AIDS in Cameroon.
The Representative of the Minister of Public Health at the event, Prof. Serge Billong thanked the American government for their constant support in the fight against HIV/AIDS
‘‘The Minister of Public Health is supporting persons living with HIV/AIDS and we are here to mark our total commitment to the fight against HIV/AIDS in Cameroon with whosoever”, declared Prof. Serge Billong.
Participants pose with MINSANTE, US Embassy and Association of Vulnerable Persons etc