2006

Central African Republic: Teaching street children about HIV: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 28, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] BANGUI, 28 December (PLUSNEWS) - Appalled by the deaths of their friends from AIDS-related infections, the street children of Bangui, the capital of the Central African Republic , did not hesitate when offered the opportunity to learn more about
Malawi: HIV/AIDS leaves young people struggling to survive: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 27, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LILONGWE, 27 December (PLUSNEWS) - Chisomo Jonasi, 12, who lives in Lirangwe, on the outskirts of Blantyre, Malawi s second city, lost both his parents to AIDS-related illnesses 18 months ago. He now spends most of his time doing odd jobs in peo
Malawi: Chiefs lead by example in response to HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 21, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LILONGWE, 21 December (PLUSNEWS) - A group of traditional leaders in Mchinji district, about 100km west of Malawian capital, Lilongwe, has become involved in HIV/AIDS awareness efforts in their communities, encouraging people to talk more openly
South Africa: Reproductive rights of HIV positive people under discussion: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 20, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 20 December (PLUSNEWS) - HIV-positive Phindile Madonsela always used a condom with her partner, but one day it broke. When it had happened before, she had gone to the local clinic and obtained emergency contraception, also known as
Kenya: Slow progress in safer-sex services for men who sleep with men: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 18, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 18 December (PLUSNEWS) - Although sex between men remains illegal in Kenya , services addressing HIV/AIDS and the sexual health needs of men who have sex with men (MSM) are slowly becoming available to this much-neglected and stigmatise
Zambia: Poor nutrition nullifies benefit of ARV treatment: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 18, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LUSAKA, 18 December (PLUSNEWS) - The poor nutrition often experienced by HIV-positive Zambians on antiretroviral [ARV] drug treatment is nullifying the benefits of the medicine, health experts are warning. Whenever I take my ARVs without eating
Zimbabwe: Another setback for anti-AIDS treatment: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 14, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] BULAWAYO, 14 December (PLUSNEWS) - Zimbabwe s health minister, HIV/AIDS activists and health experts have all warned that a recent increase in the cost of CD4 tests, which measure the strength of the immune system, will negatively affect the alr
Africa: More proof that a snip in time could save men from HIV: UN Integrated Regional Information System - December 13, 2006; JOHANNESBURG, 13 December 2006 (PlusNews) - American research bodies have called an early halt to trials of adult male circumcision in Kenya and Uganda after results showed that men who had undergone the procedure dramatically lowered their risk of contracting the HI virus. The National Institute of Allergy and Inf
Zimbabwe: Sick economy fuels growth of fake drug market: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] HARARE, 13 December (PLUSNEWS) - Zimbabwe s deteriorating health services have made room for a thriving parallel market for drugs, many of them counterfeit, warn concerned health professionals. The sale of genuine as well as fake medicines on th
Angola: Enthusiastic caregivers and silent sufferers: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] CABINDA, 13 December (PLUSNEWS) - Fear of stigmatisation in Angola is keeping people living with HIV/AIDS in hiding. Caregivers are more than willing to help but are having a hard time finding patients to take care of. People prefer to keep
Kenya: Urgent action needed to avert resistant TB - activists: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 13 December (PLUSNEWS) - Kenya risks falling victim to new, drug-resistant strains of tuberculosis (TB), found elsewhere on the continent, if the government fails to take the TB epidemic more seriously, activists have warned. Multi
Great Lakes: Appeal calls for US$84m: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 13 Dec 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - The humanitarian appeal to donors for the Great Lakes region for 2007 is aimed at alleviating the suffering of thousands in the region and improving emergency preparedness and response, a senior United Nati
Angola: Mending children broken by accusations of witchcraft: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LUANDA, 13 Dec 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - A three-year old HIV-positive child, who was also suffering from malaria, was accused by neighbours of using witchcraft to kill his parents and abandoned in a coop, where scavenging chickens pecked him, blin
Iraq: Shortage of antiretroviral drugs in Kurdistan: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 12, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] ARBIL, 12 December (PLUSNEWS) - Health officials in Iraq s northern Kurdistan region have said they lack antiretroviral drugs and HIV testing equipment, and that they have been instructed by health authorities in Baghdad to deport foreigners who
DRC: Healing the wounds of war at Panzi Hospital, South Kivu: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 12, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] Panzi hospital in Bukavu, South Kivu Province, the only facility for fistula corrective surgery. NEW YORK, 12 Dec 2006 (IRIN) - When Anna (not her real name) came to Panzi Hospital in South Kivu, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, she was in h
Angola: "Witchcraft" an excuse for child abuse: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 12, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LUANDA, 12 Dec 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Makiesse means happiness in Kikongo, a language spoken in northern Angola . But the early childhood of 10-year-old Makiesse Jonas was far from joyous. When he was aged just six, his stepmother accused him of
DRC: An untapped supply of HIV/AIDS treatment: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 11, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KINSHASA, 11 December (PLUSNEWS) - Thousands of people living with AIDS in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are going without treatment while the production line at a modern antiretroviral (ARV) factory in the east of the country lies larg
Swaziland: Nurses fleeing the HIV/AIDS frontline: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 11, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MANZINI, 11 December (PLUSNEWS) - Swaziland is dying. Will the last nurse on duty please turn off the lights? reads a handwritten note at a clinic in Manzini, the country s AIDS-hit commercial centre, 35km southeast of the capital, Mbabane.
Zambia: Help for child-headed homes: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 8, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LUSAKA, 8 Dec 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Zambia is grappling with the growing problem of thousands of child-headed homes, created by one of the highest HIV infection rates in the world. Kapiri Mposhi, a commercial hub in central Zambia, about 200km
South Africa: Prevention for positives: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 7, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 7 December (PLUSNEWS) - After Zodwa [not her real name] learned she was HIV positive, six torturous months passed before she felt able to tell her boyfriend. I had to check his mindset, she said. We were using condoms, but I worrie
OPT: No friends, few drugs and little expertise for AIDS patients: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 7, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] GAZA CITY, 7 December (PLUSNEWS) - The manner in which 14-year-old Mahmoud (not his real name) was infected with HIV was unusual - but the subsequent reaction of Palestinian society was all too predictable. I got it from a blood transfusion when
Sudan: Darfur at risk of mounting HIV/AIDS epidemic: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 7, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KHARTOUM, 7 December (PLUSNEWS) - The United Nations is raising awareness about HIV/AIDS in Sudan , but has warned that infection rates may be on the rise in the unstable Darfur region. There are suggestions that the number of people who have th
Rwanda: Need to incorporate nutrition into kids' HIV programmes: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 7, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 7 December (PLUSNEWS) - Nearly 45 percent of HIV-positive Rwandan children under five years old are severely malnourished, delegates at last month s second annual Rwandan paediatric conference on HIV/AIDS heard. Josephine Kayumba, a nut
Tanzania: African Muslim clerics divided on condom use: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 6, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] STONE TOWN, ZANZIBAR , 6 December (PLUSNEWS) - Muslim clerics from 25 African countries failed to reach consensus on the use of condoms in preventing HIV/AIDS at a meeting on the semi-autonomous Tanzanian island of Zanzibar. The Network of Afric
Egypt: Lack of official concern over silently rising HIV infections: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 6, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] CAIRO, 6 December (PLUSNEWS) - HIV/AIDS is invisible in Egypt . With an HIV prevalence rate of less than 0.1 percent, not many people in this conservative Muslim country talk about it, and even fewer know someone living with the virus. The r
South Africa: AIDS 'paradigm shift' in life insurance: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 5, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 5 December (PLUSNEWS) - A South African firm is bringing more affordable life insurance within reach of HIV-positive people otherwise struggling with limited and costly schemes. AllLife has listed regular blood tests and compliance
Pakistan: First association of people living with HIV/AIDS launched: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 5, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] ISLAMABAD, 5 December (PLUSNEWS) - The United Nations Joint Programme on HIV/AIDS ( UNAIDS ) has launched Pakistan s first association of people living with HIV/AIDS. So far only a few individual NGOs with limited capacity were providing support
Malawi: Each migrating nurse costs country up to US$26 million: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 5, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 5 December (PLUSNEWS) - Malawi , one of the world s poorest countries, is losing up to US$26 million for every nurse who leaves the country in search of greener pastures, according to a new research paper. Better salaries and
Somalia: Cross-border migration an HIV/AIDS threat: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 5, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 5 December (PLUSNEWS) - Somalia s HIV prevalence of about one percent is low, but the cross-border movement of people is causing an increase in infection rates, according to Dr Fernando Morales of the UN Children s Fund s Somalia office
Swaziland: Has Swaziland turned the corner in the fight against AIDS?: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 5, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MBABANE, 5 December (PLUSNEWS) - The Swazi government expressed cautious optimism after a survey found that 39.2 percent of women visiting antenatal clinics tested positive for HIV, indicating that the infection rate was dropping. Medical data f
Thailand: Government to break patent on key AIDS drug: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 4, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] BANGKOK, 4 December (PLUSNEWS) - Thailand is to issue a compulsory licence for Merck s patented HIV/AIDS drug Efaverenz, allowing the government to cut costs of supplying the drug by a reported 50 percent, helping it meet a growing demand for tr
Kenya: Government introduces combination therapy for PMTCT: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 4, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 4 December (PLUSNEWS) - HIV-positive pregnant women in Kenya may soon receive the AIDS drug Zidovudine, also known as AZT , alongside single-dose Nevirapine, a combination shown to significantly reduce the transmission of the virus t
Uganda: An HIV/AIDS campaign in crisis?: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 4, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KAMPALA, 4 December (PLUSNEWS) - Uganda s success in lowering its HIV/AIDS level, lauded as a rare African achievement, could be unravelling. The latest UNAIDS statistics show rising prevalence, and questions are being asked about the government
South Africa: HIV/AIDS still running amok - report: Integrated Regional Information Networks - December 1, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 1 December (PLUSNEWS) - HIV/AIDS continues to wreak havoc in South Africa , with the nation s youth appearing to be hardest hit, researchers said on 1 December, World AIDS Day. The nation s 15-year-olds now had a 56 percent chance
Jordan: AIDS high-risk groups must be controlled, says senior official: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 30, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] AMMAN, 30 November (PLUSNEWS) - Despite the low prevalence of AIDS in Jordan , the existence of vulnerable groups that could become infected with the virus and the difficulty in tracking them are the biggest challenges for the country s new stra
Africa: AIDS treatment still a pipe-dream - report: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 30, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 30 November (PLUSNEWS) - Global communities and national governments are failing to scale up antiretroviral (ARV) treatment in poor countries, said a group of 800 AIDS activists from more than 125 countries. In its latest report,
South Africa: 'AIDS' death certificate causes a stir: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 29, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 29 November (PLUSNEWS) - In the first case of its kind in the country, a South African pathologist has been brought before the Health Professions Council (HPCSA), a national health watchdog, for mentioning AIDS as the cause of deat
Kenya: Rising drug, alcohol abuse threatens HIV/AIDS gains: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 29, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 29 November (PLUSNEWS) - Kenya recorded a drop in HIV prevalence from 6.1 percent in 2005 to 5.9 in 2006 but rising substance abuse could reverse advances made in the fight against HIV/AIDS if left unchecked, the National Agency for the
Zambia: More than 10 girls raped every week: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 29, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 29 November (PLUSNEWS) - A Zambian nongovernmental organisation (NGO) revealed this week that it records eight cases of rape of young girls every week at its centre in the capital, Lusaka. The statistics were released by the Young
South Africa: Medical experts and religious leaders put heads together on HIV: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 23, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 23 November (PLUSNEWS) - An unlikely meeting of science and religion took place this week when the Voices of Reason conference brought together Christian, Jewish and Muslim religious leaders and faith-based organisations (FBOs) wit
South Africa: New social grants plan cautiously welcomed: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 23, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 23 November (PLUSNEWS) - South Africa s Department of Health confirmed on Thursday that a new social grant system was on the cards for chronically ill people, including those living with HIV/AIDS. At present, government policy stip
Rwanda: Locals taking AIDS orphans, widows under their wing: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 23, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KIGALI, 23 November (PLUSNEWS) - The continued poverty and suffering in Rwanda , 12 years after the genocide, is spurring local people to take responsibility for orphans rather than wait for handouts. I survived the genocide but my parents did
Somalia: HIV/AIDS services struggling to get off the ground: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 22, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 22 November (PLUSNEWS) - In the two years since the first voluntary counselling and testing (VCT) centre opened up in Somalia , HIV treatment, care and support has come a long way, but renewed violence threatens those gains. The wh
Swaziland: Giving parentless children an identity: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 21, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MBABANE, 21 Nov 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - A joint initiative between the Swaziland government and the United Nations Children s Fund (UNICEF) to waive birth certificate fees for orphans and children in rural areas has boosted registration figures.
Africa: New figures show AIDS epidemic spreading: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 21, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 21 Nov 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - The global HIV/AIDS epidemic is expanding, according to new figures released on Tuesday by UNAIDS and the World Health Organisation (WHO), with sub-Saharan Africa still carrying the heaviest burden. Of
Malawi: Limping PMTCT programme failing infants: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 21, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] ZOMBA, 21 November (PLUSNEWS) - Despite being largely preventable, mother-to-child transmission of HIV accounts for 30 percent of all new infections in Malawi and is the second major mode of transmission after unprotected sex. Every year, an est
Ethiopia: Funeral associations - for the living as well as the dead: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 21, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] ADDIS ABABA, 21 November (PLUSNEWS) - Support for Ethiopian families affected by the AIDS pandemic has come from an unexpected source - local funeral associations, known as edirs. An edir is a traditional burial society to which members make mon
Swaziland: Giving parentless children an identity: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 21, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MBABANE, 21 November (PLUSNEWS) - A joint initiative between the Swaziland government and the United Nations Children s Fund (UNICEF) to waive birth certificate fees for orphans and children in rural areas has boosted registration figures. Over
Uganda: HIV/AIDS rising amid extreme poverty of north's IDP camps: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 21, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KAMPALA, 21 November (PLUSNEWS) - Rebel attacks in northern Uganda over the last 20 years have shattered basic healthcare services, hitting HIV-positive people in need of life-prolonging antiretroviral (ARV) drugs particularly hard. The pro
Africa: UNICEF/Baylor kiddie AIDS partnership announced: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 20, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 20 November (PLUSNEWS) - Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas, confirmed on Monday that it is partnering with the UN Children s Fund (UNICEF) in what is set to become the single largest global effort to help children living
Zimbabwe: Child abused every hour, new data reveals: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 20, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] HARARE, 20 November (PLUSNEWS) - A child is abused every hour in Zimbabwe , according to new data released by a group of nongovernmental organisations (NGOs) working to stop the suffering. More than 8,600 cases of child abuse were reported in Zi
South Africa: Life, love and HIV: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 18, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 18 November (PLUSNEWS) - And life goes on ... concludes the preface to Conversations, HIV and the Family , a publication that aims to place HIV/AIDS where it belongs - in the midst of real life itself, with all its nuances and grit
Malawi: Health worker shortage a challenge to AIDS treatment: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 17, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NKHATA BAY, 17 November (PLUSNEWS) - Sarah Nafere has just finished a long night shift as the only nurse tending to 80 patients spread across two wards at Nkhata Bay Hospital in northern Malawi . She is one of just 18 nurses, five clinical offic
Swaziland: Students ignore safer sex practices, survey finds: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 17, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MBABANE, 17 November (PLUSNEWS) - They should be smarter, but condoms are not very popular among university students in Swaziland , which has the world s highest HIV/AIDS prevalence rate, according to a new survey. The study conducted over a
Africa: ARVs still scarce years after WTO declaration: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 16, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 16 November (PLUSNEWS) - Most HIV-positive people in Africa still lack access to antiretroviral (ARV) medication half a decade after a historic declaration that allowed poor nations to copy expensive branded drugs. Five years ago,
Zimbabwe: Five year plan to battle HIV/AIDS on farms launched: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 16, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] HARARE, 16 November (PLUSNEWS) - Zimbabwe s government is launching a five-year plan to combat HIV/AIDS in the agricultural sector after realising the impact of the pandemic on farming. The initiative, Zimbabwe Agricultural Sector Strategy on HI
Malawi: AIDS treatment fails to reach remote lakeshore community: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 15, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NKHATA BAY, 15 November (PLUSNEWS) - The challenges of achieving the Malawian government s goal of universal access to anti-AIDS treatment are nowhere more apparent than in Usisya, an isolated community on the northern shores of Lake Malawi, whe
Uganda: Interview with Maj Felix Kulayigye, defence force spokesman: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 15, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KAMPALA, 15 November (PLUSNEWS) - For the past two decades the Uganda People s Defence Forces (UPDF) has been at war with rebels of the Lord s Resistance Army in the north of the country. As the conflict has dragged on, the region s HIV infectio
South Africa: Govt AIDS programme on course but people still dying: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 14, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 14 November (PLUSNEWS) - South Africa s Ministry of Health has confirmed that close to 6,000 HIV-positive people had died while receiving antiretroviral (ARV) drugs since the government rollout began in 2004. Health department spok
Burundi: Food cuts for HIV-positive people worry NGOs: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 14, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] BUJUMBURA, 14 November (PLUSNEWS) - AIDS advocacy groups in Burundi are worried that a decision by the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) to cut special feeding programmes next year for HIV-positive people will harm their long-term health
Tanzania: Muslim clerics begin meeting on gender violence, HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 14, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] STONE TOWN, ZANZIBAR, 14 November (PLUSNEWS) - Muslim clerics from 25 African countries have begun a five-day population and development meeting in Tanzania s semiautonomous island of Zanzibar, focusing on issues such as HIV/AIDS and gender viol
DRC: Ex-combatants confront the reality of HIV: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 14, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KABARE, SOUTH KIVU, 14 November (PLUSNEWS) - Craning their necks through the window of a medical centre in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a dozen ex-combatants from the recent civil war watch images of sexually transmitted infec
Pakistan: Lonely truck drivers face HIV/AIDS threat: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 14, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LAHORE, 14 November (PLUSNEWS) - Leaning against his brightly painted truck, Muhammad Rafiq, 30, looks furtively at the two condoms he holds in his hand. I plan to use these soon, but I hope I can remember to do so when the time comes, he says,
Central African Republic: A country on the brink of an abyss: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] BANGUI, 13 November (PLUSNEWS) - More than one tenth of adults in the volatile Central African Republic (CAR) are living with HIV/AIDS, but foreign assistance has been hard to come by, leaving the country struggling to mount an effective respons
Zimbabwe: Global Fund woes more than meets the eye: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 13 November (PLUSNEWS) - Zimbabwe s request for US$33 million from the Global Fund to Fight HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis (TB) and Malaria has been rejected on technical grounds, with the country advised to resubmit its proposals next yea
Ethiopia: UN agency welcomes food aid but says more assistance needed: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 10 Nov 2006 (IRIN) - Welcoming a US $37-million donation from the United States to Ethiopia , an official of the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has said floods and drought had worsened food shortages in the country, and that
Zimbabwe: The benefits of involving men in HIV programmes: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] HARARE, 10 November (PLUSNEWS) - Prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) programmes need to involve men in care and support services, says a Zimbabwean HIV/AIDS organisation. Zvitambo, a research project that aims to improve HIV preve
India: Treatment without literacy can be dangerous: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NEW DELHI, 10 November (PLUSNEWS) - Over five million people in India are HIV-positive, but there is precious little information on drug treatment for most of the population, who are not fluent in English and live on the margins of society.
South Africa: Research is discounting myths about orphans: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NEWCASTLE, 10 November (PLUSNEWS) - A few years ago Prof Timothy Quinlan was hearing horror stories about delinquency and abandonment among AIDS orphans that would spell trouble for their future social acceptance. The anecdotes were that orphans
Burundi: Compulsory HIV testing before marriage still a sore point: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] BUJUMBURA, 10 November (PLUSNEWS) - The Roman Catholic Church s policy in Burundi that all couples intending to marry be tested for HIV is raising the hackles of some HIV-positive people, who claim that the measure promotes stigma. It is a
Namibia: Global Fund rejects HIV/AIDS proposal: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 10 November (PLUSNEWS) - The rejection of Namibia s latest grant request to the Global Fund to Fight HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis (TB) and Malaria has created an air of uncertainty among local nongovernmental organisations (NGOs). Peni
Liberia: Stigma blunts AIDS action: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] GANTA, 10 November (PLUSNEWS) - The bustling commercial town of Ganta, a five-hour drive from the Liberian capital, Monrovia, is emblematic of the AIDS challenge facing the country as it rebuilds after 14 years of civil war. Ganta is the hub of
Mozambique: WFP halves rations for the hungry: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MAPUTO, 10 November (PLUSNEWS) - A funding shortfall of more than 70 percent has forced the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) to halve its rations to hungry Mozambicans, ahead of the critical lean season between harvests, when food stock
Togo: End of grant causes concern: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 9, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LOME, 9 November (PLUSNEWS) - Togolese nongovernmental organisations (NGOs) have warned that the end of a grant by the Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria could put at least 24,000 HIV-infected people at risk. It s a complete dis
Kenya: Muslim women in the north defy custom to fight AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 9, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LODWAR, 9 November (PLUSNEWS) - A group of Muslim women in the dusty town of Lodwar, northern Kenya , are breaking with tradition to speak openly about HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases. As in many Muslim societies, the people of
Southern Africa: HIV/AIDS threatening life expectancy - UN report: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 9, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 9 November (PLUSNEWS) - Falling life expectancy is one of the most visible effects of HIV/AIDS in many nations and has reversed human development across a large part of Southern Africa, according to a new UN report. In sub-Saharan
Tanzania: Insurance for HIV-positive employees inspires confidence: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 8, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] DAR ES SALAAM, 8 November (PLUSNEWS) - The availability of affordable antiretroviral (ARV) drugs in Tanzania is restoring employers confidence in the productivity of their HIV-positive staff and gaining the employees more credibility at work.
Zimbabwe: Undertakers report booming business: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 8, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] HARARE, 8 November (PLUSNEWS) - One sector of Zimbabwe s depressed economy is experiencing boom times. For those providing services for the dead, business is very healthy. An area on the western fringes of the central business district in the ca
Namibia: Walvis Bay harbour gives HIV an international passport: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 8, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] WALVIS BAY, 8 November (PLUSNEWS) - When fishermen arrive in the port city of Walvis Bay in Namibia , flush with money after months at sea, they don t have to go far to spend it. The small town s harbour area is littered with discos and nightclu
Angola-Zambia: Refugees return home armed with the knowledge of HIV/AIDS prevention: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 8, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MAYUKWAYUKWA REFUGEE CAMP, 8 November (PLUSNEWS) - Four years after a ceasefire ended decades of civil war in neighbouring Angola , Zambia is still home to more than 25,000 Angolan refugees awaiting repatriation. Zambia s HIV/AIDS prevalence rat
South Africa: Radio, TV and print have positive impact on AIDS - study: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 8, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 8 November (PLUSNEWS) - A new survey in South Africa has proved the positive effect of media campaigns in raising HIV/AIDS awareness. The study by four organisations, including the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health s
TOGO: End of grant raises concerns: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 7, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LOME, 7 Nov 2006 (IRIN) - Togolese NGOs warned on Tuesday that the end of a grant by the Global Fund against AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria could put at least 24,000 HIV-infected people at risk. It s a complete disaster, we re distraught, said
Uganda: Funding shortfall to affect health programmes: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 7, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KAMPALA, 7 November (PLUSNEWS) - Health programmes in Uganda could be disrupted following a decision by the Global Fund to exclude the country from its list of beneficiaries, a senior government official said on Tuesday The decision by the G
Mozambique: New bridge puts children at risk: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 7, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] CHIMUARA, 7 November (PLUSNEWS) - Fears of HIV/AIDS and child prostitution have gripped the towns of Caia and Chimuara on opposite sides of the Zambezi River in central Mozambique as construction of a new bridge draws in hundreds of mostly male
Zambia: Masai healers fill public health services void: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 6, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LUSAKA, 6 Nov 2006 (IRIN) - Rising demand for the services of traditional healers is drawing Tanzanian Masai practitioners across the border to fill the void left by the creaking Zambian public health system, but their discounted prices are upse
Sudan: Coping with stigma in the conservative north: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 6, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KHARTOUM, 6 Nov 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Nine years ago, while working in Libya , Sudanese Professor Jalal Mohamed was diagnosed with a severe case of nostalgia. He was listless and had no appetite, but because he had passed all his physicals to w
Zimbabwe: Until death us do part - love, marriage and the virus: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 6, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] BULAWAYO, 6 November (PLUSNEWS) - When Nomvula Mnkandlha, 29, met Skhumbuzo Muvhinjeva, 39, at a support group meeting for HIV positive people, in Zimbabwe s second city, Bulawayo, she was not looking for a romantic relationship. The soft-spoken
Uganda: Marching for abstinence: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 3, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KAMPALA, 3 November (PLUSNEWS) - Thousands of Ugandans marched through Kampala recently to promote the message that Abstinence Pride is central to the fight against HIV/AIDS. Last week s event, which culminated in a reggae concert, was organised
Ethiopia: Eritrean refugees desperate for HIV services: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 2, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] SHIMELBA, 2 November (PLUSNEWS) - Every evening as the sun sets over the hills of northern Ethiopia , young couples can be seen strolling past the coffee shops and pool halls of Shimelba refugee camp. An estimated 10,000 refugees live in Shime
Kenya: HIV exacerbates malnutrition among infants in drought-prone Turkana: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 2, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LODWAR, 2 November (PLUSNEWS) - A high incidence of HIV has worsened the condition of hungry children in drought-prone Turkana region, in northern Kenya . Over the past month, seven of the 10 children admitted to a nutritional rehabilitation cen
Zimbabwe: New plan to get girls back to schools: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 1, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] HARARE, 1 Nov 2006 (IRIN) - A joint initiative is being launched by the United Nations, Zimbabwean government and civil society to address the legacy of girls being sidelined from education in the wake of last year s mass forced removals. The
Zambia: Getting street kids to stay on the straight and narrow: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 1, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LUSAKA, 1 November (PLUSNEWS) - Dressed in baggy trousers, caps and colourful T-shirts, the toughened teens of the Back to School Project were scared. The boys, all between the ages of 14 and 18, live on the streets of Zambia s capital, Lusaka,
Southern Africa: Red Cross launches biggest ever AIDS appeal: Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 1, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 1 November (PLUSNEWS) - The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies launched an appeal on Wednesday to massively expand its anti-AIDS programme in Southern Africa over the next five years. Speaking in Johan
Swaziland: Government stops grants for the elderly: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 31, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MBABANE, 31 Oct 2006 (IRIN) - Government is blaming budgetary constraints for both its inability to provide education for the growing ranks of orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) and its failure to pay grants to widows and the elderly. Health
Senegal: Sexually active street children increasingly vulnerable to HIV: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 31, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] DAKAR, 31 October (PLUSNEWS) - Many of the thousands of children that wander the busy streets of Dakar, the capital of Senegal , are sexually active but few have any knowledge about the risks of HIV. One sees eight-year-old children who already
Sao Tome and Principe: HIV-positive mothers reject formula feeding: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 31, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] SAO TOME, 31 October (PLUSNEWS) - Poverty and a cultural preference for breastfeeding are driving the spread of HIV from mothers to their babies in Sao Tome and Principe . The HIV rate among pregnant women on the tiny West African islands
South Africa: Govt/NGO meeting spurs hope for more effective AIDS action: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 30, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 30 October (PLUSNEWS) - A spirit of greater openness and unity between government and civil society has emerged from a two-day AIDS congress, signalling a possible end to damaging divisions in South Africa s HIV/AIDS response.
Malawi: Show us the money, says UN AIDS envoy: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 30, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LILONGWE, 30 October (PLUSNEWS) - A visiting UN envoy has accused the world s wealthiest countries of failing Malawi , which is struggling to care for more than two million orphans and vulnerable children. Where is the money? At the G8 summ
South Africa: Slow anti-AIDS care being felt in KwaZulu-Natal: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 30, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 30 October (PLUSNEWS) - For many HIV-positive people in South Africa s Embo area, southwest of the port city of Durban, accessing treatment at public health facilities is as difficult as navigating the steep and muddy paths between
Namibia: Reaching targets despite great obstacles: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 30, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] WINDHOEK, 30 October (PLUSNEWS) - Namibia has become the poster child of global treatment access efforts because it is one of the few countries to have exceeded its target in the World Health Organisation s (WHO) campaign to put three million pe
Swaziland: AIDS campaign induces behaviour change: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 27, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MBABANE, 27 October (PLUSNEWS) - An aggressive HIV/AIDS awareness campaign has had a positive impact on the sexual behaviour and attitudes of Swazis, a new survey has found. The study was commissioned by the National Emergency Response Council o
South Africa: Young women falling into AIDS trap: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 27, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 27 October (PLUSNEWS) - High-risk sexual behaviour has become common practice among young women and girls struggling to make end meet in the semi-rural Embo area of South Africa s KwaZulu-Natal Province. Zandile Shange, an AIDS edu
Uganda: Men in the north slow to respond to AIDS message: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 27, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KITGUM, 27 October (PLUSNEWS) - Awareness of the AIDS pandemic is generally high in northern Uganda , but the message has not hit home with some men, who are still too afraid of the stigma against the disease to seek treatment. According to
Africa: ARVs on the frontline: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 26, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 26 Oct 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Providing HIV/AIDS treatment and care in countries at peace is hard enough; extending those services to people on the run from conflict or disaster seems, on the face of it, hopelessly complicated.
Sierra Leone: Stigma and fear prevent uptake of vital services: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 26, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] FREETOWN, 26 October (PLUSNEWS) - Stigma against HIV/AIDS and fear of learning one s status are slowing the uptake of free testing and treatment services in Sierra Leone . The focus of the national response so far has been on increasing people s
Zimbabwe: Homophobia raises HIV risk for gays: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 26, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] HARARE, 26 October (PLUSNEWS) - Efforts to address the HIV/AIDS epidemic among Zimbabwe s homosexual population are being frustrated by homophobia in the government and society. This is according to the Gays and Lesbians of Zimbabwe (GALZ), a na
Sao Tome And Principe: Stigma hobbles HIV/AIDS fight: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 25, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] SAO TOME - When Maria (not her real name) took the brave step of speaking to the media in Sao Tome about her HIV-positive status, she had no idea what she was letting herself in for. Although she had her back turned to the cameras, her voice was
Tanzania: ARV rollout slowly improving: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 25, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] DAR ES SALAAM - After a slow start to its antiretroviral (ARV) treatment programme, Tanzania has speeded up the pace, doubling the number of HIV-positive people receiving the drugs over the past 10 months. According to the National AIDS Cont
Kenya: Prisoners in remote Turkana get HIV/AIDS education: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 25, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LODWAR - On a sweltering afternoon in the crowded courtyard of Lodwar Prison, in northern Kenya s remote Turkana district, inmates jostle for positions on the floor, enraptured by rare entertainment - a short film to educate them about HIV/AIDS.
Africa: Treatment is feasible but needs careful implementation: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 25, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG - Providing HIV/AIDS treatment and care in countries at peace is hard enough; extending those services to people on the run from conflict or disaster seems, on the face of it, hopelessly complicated. But even during the height of th
India: New study reveals HIV/AIDS stigma in hospitals: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 24, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NEW DELHI, 24 October (PLUSNEWS) - India s growing HIV/AIDS pandemic is putting more pressure on hospitals to provide improved levels of care, but prejudice among medical staff against HIV-positive people is keeping those most in need away, acco
South Africa: AIDS fight picks up pace in a Durban township: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 23, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 23 October (PLUSNEWS) - The Blue Roofs Clinic in Wentworth, on the outskirts of South Africa s east-coast city of Durban, is difficult to miss with its giant steel top echoing the colour of its name. Situated on the former premises
DRC: 'Sexual terrorism' in South Kivu leaves HIV in its wake: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 22, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] BUKAVU, 22 October (PLUSNEWS) - In 2004 the United Nation s World Health Organisation estimated there were 25,000 survivors of sexual violence in South Kivu, the Democratic Republic of Congo s eastern province, but those working to rebuild shatt
Lesotho: Testing campaign struggles to get off the ground: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 20, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] QUTHING, 20 October (PLUSNEWS) - Ten months after its official launch, Lesotho s ambitious plan to take the offer of an HIV test to every village and household in the country has yet to get off the ground. The original goal of the Know Your Stat
Malawi: Illegal orphanages mushroom: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 20, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LILONGWE, 20 Oct 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - There are over a million orphans in Malawi , half of whom have lost one or both parents to AIDS, according to the UN Children s Fund (UNICEF), but only 15 out of almost a thousand orphanages are registered
Swaziland: Little cheer in central bank's annual review: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 20, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MBABANE , 20 Oct 2006 (IRIN) - Swaziland s decade-long economic malaise took a sharp downward turn with the central bank s disclosure this week that growth had slowed to its lowest level in 40 years. The Central Bank of Swaziland s governor, Mar
South Africa: Faith makes a difference in AIDS care: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 19, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] FISH HOEK, 19 Oct 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - When Rev. John Thomas brought churchgoers together to serve people living with HIV/AIDS seven years ago, donations came from individual pocketbooks. Their work created a buzz, and by 2001 donations were p
West Africa: Child deaths from HIV/AIDS to keep growing: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 19, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] DAKAR, 19 Oct 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Almost 99 percent of mothers with the HIV virus are not getting the drugs to stop them infecting their unborn children, sparking a cycle of neglect that is affecting more than 4.2 million children in West and
Ethiopia: Poverty forcing girls into risky sex work: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 18, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] ADDIS ABABA, 18 October (PLUSNEWS) - The nightclubs of the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa, reveal a thriving sex industry, in which thousands of skimpily dressed young women trade sexual favours for cash to survive, putting them at risk of contr
Zimbabwe: Another ARV shortage looms: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 18, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] HARARE, 18 October (PLUSNEWS) - The government has been forced to hold off putting more HIV-positive people on its treatment programme, amid reports that anti-AIDS drug supplies could run out by December. Our problem is that, currently, we canno
South Africa: UN steps in to nudge country towards MDGs: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 18, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 18 Oct 2006 (IRIN) - Bottlenecks in service delivery are hampering South Africa s efforts to meet its Millennium Development Goals of eradicating poverty and halving unemployment by 2015, said the UN Development Programme (UNDP), w
Lesotho: 'Expert' patients lighten load for clinic staff: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 18, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MASERU, 18 October (PLUSNEWS) - Seated at a table recording blood samples in a tiny, overflowing waiting room at Phoholong HIV/AIDS Clinic, about 40km from Maseru, the capital, Miriam Phoofolo could be mistaken for a nurse, but she is in fact a
Southern Africa: Emergency plan to counter deadly TB stain: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 18, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] PRETORIA , 18 October (PLUSNEWS) - Cases of extremely drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB) are being diagnosed throughout South Africa and could be going undetected in other parts of the region. This emerged at a two-day workshop convened in Pre
Nigeria: "Nollywood" joins fight against HIV: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 17, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] ABUJA, 17 October (PLUSNEWS) - Actors and filmmakers from Nollywood - as Nigeria s film industry is colloquially known - have come out in support of the fight against HIV/AIDS. Cinema for AIDS , a week-long event in Abuja, the capital, was backe
Zimbabwe: Wanted - HIV-Positive Celebs to Speak Out: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 16, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] Harare - Too few public figures in Zimbabwe are coming forward to be tested for HIV, so widespread stigma and discrimination are driving the epidemic underground, says a leading HIV/AIDS activist. Tendayi Westerhof, executive director of Public
Kenya: Farm Project Helps Aids Orphans Get Food, Income: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 16, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] Bondo - A UN project is helping to sustain farming know-how and other life skills among Kenyan children orphaned by AIDS. The Junior Farmer Field and Life Schools project (JFFLS), which has been running for two years, teaches basic farming tech
Zimbabwe: Huge Cash Boost for PSI Anti-Aids Programme: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 13, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG - Population Services International (PSI), a nonprofit voluntary organisation, confirmed on Friday that it had received US$37 million to tackle HIV/AIDS in Zimbabwe over the next five years. PSI country director Michael Chommie
Angola: WFP Pulls Out As Oil Riches Deter Donors: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 13, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] Johannesburg - The UN s World Food Programme (WFP), finding it hard to mobilise donors to support Angola s hungry poor, has been forced to cut back on its feeding programmes in Africa s second-biggest oil producer. The food agency announced on
Global: Asia has more hungry kids, but most die in Africa: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 13 Oct 2006 (IRIN) - Sub-Saharan Africa has fewer hungry children than Southeast Asia, where gender discrimination forces mothers to survive on poor diets, according to a food security researcher. Women in Southeast Asia eat last a
Zimbabwe: Disabled children embattled by education policy: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] HARARE, 13 Oct 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - A new report shows that Zimbabwe s education policy for children with disabilities is skewed, with 67 percent of disabled children having no access to any form of schooling. Clearly, children with disabiliti
Nepal: More work needed to achieve development goals - report: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KATHMANDU, 13 Oct 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Nepal , along with many other developing country in the Asia Pacific region, is falling behind in efforts to meet the UN s Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), said a new report A Future Within Reach jo
Ghana: Increase in HIV/AIDS treatment and care centres: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] ACCRA, 13 Oct 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Forty-five-year-old butcher Amadu* eagerly looks forward to his first visit to the Tamale Government hospital s new HIV/AIDS treatment and care centre in northern Ghana . This time, he will not have to tr
Ethiopia: Confidential hotline getting people talking: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 12, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] ADDIS ABABA, 12 Oct 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - It means family in Amharic, Ethiopia s main language, but the Wegen AIDS helpline s main strength is the anonymity it provides people seeking answers in a society uncomfortable with openly talking about
South Africa: Funeral homes making a killing: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 12, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 12 October (PLUSNEWS) - Funeral homes are the only winners in South Africa s struggle against one of the most severe HIV/AIDS pandemics in the world. Pierre Gouws, marketing manager of Martin s Funeral Parlour in Johannesburg, the
Southern Africa: Red Cross and Red Crescent HIV/AIDS Global Alliance launches new initiative: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 11, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 11 Oct 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies has launched a major new community-based AIDS initiative in Southern Africa, the world s worst affected region where more than 11 mi
South Africa: Communities empowered to protect children: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 11, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MACASSAR, 11 Oct 2006 (IRIN) - A project in South Africa s coastal Western Cape Province is trying to empower communities to protect their children from violence and substance abuse. Children aged between five and nine years in the wine-growing
Lesotho: OVC situation needs urgent action: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 11, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 11 Oct 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Lesotho s Department of Social Welfare says more must be done to address the needs of orphans and vulnerable children (OVC). Limakatso Chisepo, director of the department, told PlusNews that talks shou
Uganda: Broadcasting a message to remote northern communities: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 11, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KITGUM, 11 Oct 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Trained AIDS counsellors are few and far between in war-damaged northern Uganda , so relief agencies are turning to a local radio station to broadcast messages on prevention, treatment and care. Twenty y
Africa: European grass not always greener for HIV-positive Africans: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 11, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] PARIS, 11 Oct 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - On paper France treats its 20,000 HIV-positive immigrants well - they are entitled to free healthcare, and even those whose residence status is still to be determined get free treatment after three months if
DRC: Solidarity against AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LUBUMBASHI, 10 Oct 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - After losing her sister to HIV/AIDS two years ago, Kimya, an HIV-positive mother of four, felt she had no choice but to take in her sister s children, saying it was the obvious thing to do - it is solida
Sierra Leone: HIV/AIDS is here to stay and needs to be a priority: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] FREETOWN, 10 Oct 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Denial and ignorance of HIV/AIDS are still major problems in post-war Sierra Leone , hindering care and support for people living with the virus. When I tested positive in 2002 and told my family, they d n
Southern Africa: UN initiative speeds up service delivery: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 9, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 9 Oct 2006 (IRIN) - Two months ago, hospitals in Botswana had to wait four months for the delivery of emergency medicines, but with the help of a UN initiative this has now been slashed to just six days. The Southern African Ca
Pastoralist Communities in Turkana Face Rising HIV Rate: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 6, 2006; Turkana in northern Kenya is the largest district in the country but poor services and low literacy have led to a high HIV prevalence rate among its pastoralist communities. Yakish Eyapan, the District AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Infections Coordinator, reported a rate of 11.4 percent in the area, compared to the nat
Cameroon: Imprisoned Homosexuals Face High HIV Risk: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 5, 2006; Homosexuality is a criminal offense in Cameroon . Ten days after completing a one-year prison sentence for homosexuality during which he was raped and abused, Alim died from an AIDS-related illness at the Central Hospital in Yaounde, the capital of Cameroon. Homosexuality is a crime under Cameroonian law, punishable by
Botswana: Female condom gets a makeover: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 5, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 5 October (PLUSNEWS) - Botswana s government has turned to advertising and marketing to give the usually unpopular female condom more prominence in its fight against HIV/AIDS. Officially relaunched as Bliss by a local creative and
South Africa: Prisons AIDS survey draws mixed reaction: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 4, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 4 October (PLUSNEWS) - South African activists have cautiously welcomed government plans to gauge the impact of AIDS among inmates and prison staff by means of a national survey. The Department of Correctional Services said it aime
Southern Africa: Give peacekeepers ARVs, new study urges: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 4, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 4 October (PLUSNEWS) - As the African Union (AU) moves towards establishing a formal peacekeeping brigade, a new study has suggested the need for troops on missions to be supplied with anti-AIDS medication. Bots
Eritrea: Renewed efforts to outlaw female genital mutilation: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 4, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 4 Oct 2006 (IRIN) - Women in Eritrea have joined a nationwide campaign to try to eradicate female genital mutilation (FGM) by lobbying for a law to ban the practice and raise mass awareness among the population, an official at the Natio
Zimbabwe: HIV-positive farmworkers are forgotten: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 3, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] HARARE, 3 October (PLUSNEWS) - Little is being done to provide treatment and care for Zimbabwean farmworkers living with HIV/AIDS since the government launched its controversial fast-track land redistribution programme in 2000. Historically expl
Asia: Regional meeting highlights vulnerability of MSM: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 3, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NEW DELHI, 3 October (PLUSNEWS) - The law in India , as in many other countries in Asia Pacific, criminalises sex between men. But as HIV and AIDS spreads across the region, governments have slowly begun to publicly acknowledge the need for well
South Africa: Businesses AIDS strategies need revisiting - SABCOHA: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 3, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 3 October (PLUSNEWS) - South Africa s Business Coalition on HIV/AIDS (SABCOHA) says certain business sectors are still feeling the effects of the pandemic, despite having workplace initiatives in place. Citing the findings of the 2
South Africa: Civil society coalition announces new HIV/AIDS action plan: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 3, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 3 October (PLUSNEWS) - A coalition of South African civil society organisations on Tuesday revealed their response to the South African government s calls for greater unity in the fight against HIV and AIDS. The Treatment Action Ca
Congo: Strife-torn Pool slowly waking up to HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 2, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MINDOULI, 2 Oct 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - As the republic of Congo s Pool region slowly emerges from years of civil war, the lack of health services, ongoing insecurity and logistics problems have made it extremely difficult for HIV-positive people
South Africa: HIV/AIDS and water privatisation - the human impact: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 2, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 2 Oct 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Water, gathered and stored since the beginning of time in layers of granite and rock, in the embrace of dams and the ribbons of rivers - will one day, unheralded, modestly, easily and simply flow out to
Benin: Refugees from Togo sensitised to AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - October 2, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] COTONOU, 2 Oct 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - R�gle d or, a local nongovernmental organisation (NGO) in Benin , is taking awareness messages to thousands of Togolese nationals who fled their country when the presidential elections erupted in violence la
Congo: Isolated Sangha region falls off the map: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 29, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] PIKOUNDA, 29 Sep 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Isolated and hard to reach, rural areas in the Sangha region in the north of the Republic of Congo have fallen off the map in HIV/AIDS prevention efforts. About a decade ago, the Pikounda region along the
Zimbabwe: ARV price hikes linked to private healthcare - Govt: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 29, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 29 September (PLUSNEWS) - Zimbabwean Minister of Health David Pariyenyatwa said on Friday he was not aware that prices of anti-AIDS drugs had been hiked, but pointed out that steep private healthcare costs were pushing more HIV-pos
South Africa: Global effort to fight deadly TB strain: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 28, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG - The World Health Organisation (WHO) will convene a global task force in Geneva in October to thrash out a battle plan against extremely drug resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB), a deadly, drug-resistant disease that has already killed
South Africa: Zuma slammed for views on homosexuality, same-sex marriage: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 27, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 27 Sep 2006 (IRIN) - Outraged human rights activists have slammed former South African deputy president Jacob Zuma s condemnation of same-sex marriages. Zuma, perceived as a leading contender for the country s presidency, reportedl
Swaziland: Drug Shortage Brings Resurgence of Folk Remedies: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 27, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations Mbabane - The unavailability of pharmaceutical drugs is forcing Swazis to rely on traditional medicines to alleviate their ailments. The government, which created the shortages by its failure to issue drug tenders to companies supplying clinics
Congo: Slim resources to counter rising HIV/AIDS level: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 27, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] DOLISIE, 27 Sep 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - The Republic of Congo s official independence celebrations were held in the southwest town of Dolisie this year, highlighting an area hard-hit by the pandemic but struggling to provide HIV/AIDS services.
South Africa: Authorities rush to control illegal medicines boom: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 26, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 26 September (PLUSNEWS) - Illegal medicines might be stealing their way onto the South African market while health and Medicines Control Council (MCC) officials try to fast-track monitoring the safety and efficacy of these drugs.
Zimbabwe: Politics not need determines govt aid - rights NGO: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 26, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 26 Sep 2006 (IRIN) - Distribution of government aid is being politicised by the ruling party in Zimbabwe s eastern province of Manicaland, according to a faith-based rights organisation. The Zimbabwe Peace Project (ZPP), in a new r
Central Asia: Regional HIV/AIDS conference kicks off: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 25, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] ANKARA, 25 Sep 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Participants at an international conference on combating the spread of HIV/AIDS in Central Asia and Eastern Europe, which opened in the Kyrgyz capital, Bishkek, on Monday, are calling for greater regional co
Zimbabwe: HIV prevalence decline - will it last?: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 25, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 25 Sep 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - News of Zimbabwe s declining HIV prevalence rates have been met with scepticism and confusion, particularly in view of the country s economic and political climate. Can this good news be attributed to
South Africa: ARV side effect cause for concern - experts: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 22, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 22 Sep 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - The dangerous side effects of an anti-AIDS drug commonly used in South Africa have forced medical experts to re-evaluate the limited treatment options available in developing countries.
Tanzania: New roads expose remote areas to HIV - report: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 21, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] DAR ES SALAAM, 21 Sep 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Rural road construction in Tanzania is opening new markets and providing greater economic opportunities, but can also increase the risk of HIV transmission. When roads and bridges are built they
Pakistan: Marginalised male sex workers vulnerable to HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 21, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LAHORE, 21 Sep 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Under the illuminated Minar-e- Pakistan , the towering monument that marks the birth of the country, Pervaiz Din lays out the accessories of his trade. The tiny bottles of massage oil and aromatic colognes t
Mozambique: Recognising the reality of HIV/AIDS in prisons saves lives: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 21, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MAPUTO, 21 Sep 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - In Mozambique s Machava Central Prison, the largest jail in the country, sex between prisoners is an unavoidable reality, but little is being done to prevent it, according to inmates and medical staff. S
Kenya: Better care could be taken of AIDS orphans: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 21, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 21 Sep 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Being an orphan is tough enough at the best of times, but in the working class district of Dagoretti Corner in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi, it often means going without food as well as love. Felista Kibe tr
Togo: Alleged mismanagement of funds worries NGOs: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 20, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LOME, 20 September (PLUSNEWS) - Togolese NGOs are circulating a petition to pressure Togolese officials to take measures to assure that funds contributed to help fight HIV/AIDS in the country are well managed after financing for their programmes
Kazakstan: Government to toughen fight against HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 20, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] ANKARA, 20 September (PLUSNEWS) - The Kazakh government is expected to approve a new programme worth over US $50 million to combat the spread of HIV/AIDS in the former Soviet republic. This is a [four-year] programme to fight the HIV/AIDS epidem
South Africa: AIDS death a concern for pregnant women: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 20, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 20 September (PLUSNEWS) - HIV/AIDS is the number one killer of new mothers in South Africa , the Department of Health said on Tuesday. In a study of 3,406 deaths of pregnant women and new mothers between 2002 and 2004, the departme
South Africa: AIDS acrimony must end - Deputy President: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 20, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 20 September (PLUSNEWS) - South African Deputy President Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka has appealed for a new spirit between government and nongovernmental organisations in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Mlambo-Ngcuka told a conference of th
Africa: Rich nations fly with airline AIDS tax: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 20, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 20 September (PLUSNEWS) - Brazil , Chile , Norway and the UK this week agreed to a US$300 million French plan to raise funds against HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis (TB) and malaria in Africa through an additional tax on airli
Tanzania: Early marriage puts girls at risk of HIV: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 19, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] DAR ES SALAAM, 19 Sep 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Data collected by the Tanzania Media Women Association (TAMWA) shows a strong correlation between HIV/AIDS, early school exit, teenage marriage and pregnancy. Tanzanian law allows girls aged as yo
South Africa: Labour urged to demand sacking of health minister: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 19, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 19 September (PLUSNEWS) - A leading AIDS activist caused a stir by demanding the South African health minister s removal in the presence of the deputy president at a conference on Tuesday. Our government has failed us. We must spea
Pakistan: Drug injecting refugees vulnerable to HIV infection: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 18, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] PESHAWAR, 18 Sep 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - In an alley close to the historic Qissa Kahani Bazaar in Peshawar, capital of Pakistan s North West Frontier Province (NWFP), Najeeb Khan, 22, crouches on his haunches beneath a flimsy shop awning. It is
Guinea-Bissau: Proposed law to ban female genital mutilation: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 15, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] BAFATA, 15 Sep 2006 (IRIN) - The practice of fanado, or female genital mutilation, could soon be outlawed by a new bill to be presented to the Guinea-Bissau parliament. Fanado is a traditional initiation ceremony for young girls, in which the va
Tanzania: HIV linked to injected drugs in Zanzibar - new study: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 15, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] STONE TOWN, ZANZIBAR , 15 Sep 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - A study by the government of the semiautonomous Tanzanian island of Zanzibar has uncovered a link between substance abuse, commercial sex and the spread of HIV/AIDS. Injection drug use and nee
Namibia: Govt and NGO launch joint assault against HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 15, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] WINDHOEK, 15 Sep 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - While government and civil society groups in Namibia can point to successes in the anti-AIDS drive, activists warns there is still much more to do. As the ministry of health prepared to beat its national t
South Africa: Correctional services shed light on HIV in jails: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 15, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 15 Sep 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - South Africa s Department of Correctional Services set the record straight on Friday about it being in the dark over the impact of HIV/AIDS on prison inmates. Dismissing reports that the number of HIV-
Uganda: US donates $15 million for religious-based HIV/AIDS programmes: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 15, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KAMPALA, 15 September (PLUSNEWS) - The United States this week donated US$15 million to a religious body for HIV/AIDS prevention, care and treatment programmes in Uganda . The US Agency for International Development (USAID), with funding fro
Kenya: No time to "chill" for abstinence campaign: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 15, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 15 September (PLUSNEWS) - A huge media campaign has been urging young Kenyans to chill - or abstain from sex - in a bid to curb HIV transmission. Nime Chill - Swahili-English slang meaning I have chilled or I am abstaining - seeks to r
South Africa: Disability grants - you can choose to be sick or hungry: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 14, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] THEMBISA, 14 Sep 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - It s a rainy day in Thembisa, a sprawling township north of Johannesburg, South Africa s commercial hub, where Maria, 48, the matriarch of the Mlotswa* family, her two sisters, their 19 children and five g
South Africa: The world's biggest ARV Programme?: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 14, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 14 Sep 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - To be HIV positive and living in South Africa is to be part of a national lottery that puts your current chances of accessing antiretroviral (ARV) treatment at about 25 percent. If you cannot afford pr
DRC: Sexual violence, lack of healthcare spreads HIV/AIDS among pygmies: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] CHOMBO, 13 September (PLUSNEWS) - The forest people of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), marginalised at the best of times, were easy targets for the marauding soldiers and militiamen that reduced the eastern provinces to one of the world
South Africa: Officials under pressure to contain deadly TB: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG , 13 Sep 2006 (IRIN) - Health officials in South Africa are fighting to contain the spread of a deadly, drug-resistant strain of tuberculosis (TB) after an HIV-positive woman with the disease refused treatment and walked out of a Jo
Uganda: Outrage as ARVs expire in government stores: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KAMPALA, 13 Sep 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Ugandan HIV/AIDS activists are outraged after antiretroviral (ARV) drugs worth an estimated US$500,000 recently expired in government stores while people have been dying of AIDS-linked illnesses. For drugs
Kenya: Education key to ARV adherence among refugees: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 11, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KAKUMA, 11 Sep 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Anti-AIDS drugs are available to a small group of HIV-positive patients in northern Kenya s remote Kakuma refugee camp, but access is only part of the challenge: ignorance about the virus is widespread.
Uganda: HIV/AIDS comes to the big screen: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 11, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KAMPALA, 11 September (PLUSNEWS) - Movies in Uganda are usually imported from Hollywood, India s Bollywood or Nigeria s Nollywood , but a new film sets out to develop the local industry and tackle one of the biggest stories - the AIDS pandemic.
South Africa: COSATU irked by Govt AIDS inaction: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 11, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 11 September (PLUSNEWS) - The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) is to call for intensification of the government s national plan against HIV/AIDS at its upcoming national meeting. Cosatu has over and over again expres
South Africa: Health Minister easy with IMC: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 11, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 11 September (PLUSNEWS) - South African Health Minister Manto Tshabalala-Msimang has dismissed reports that she had been sidelined after a cabinet decision to reinforce its interministerial committee (IMC) on HIV/AIDS. Deputy-Presi
South Africa: New and worryingly virulent strain of TB found: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 8, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 8 Sep 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - International and regional medical personnel have gathered in South Africa where a new, virtually untreatable form of an old disease, Tuberculosis or TB, has been found. Drug resistant TB has appear
Burundi-DRC: Providing healthcare to hard-to-reach urban refugees: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 8, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] BUJUMBURA, 8 Sep 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Health workers in Burundi are finding it hard to reach more than 17,000 Congolese refugees who have chosen to live outside official refugee camps, leaving them vulnerable to HIV/AIDS and other diseases.
Africa: HIV/AIDS - The Granny Revolution: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 8, 2006; JOHANNESBURG, 8 Sep 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - It started with three South African grandmothers sharing their grief at the loss of their children and supporting each other to care for their orphaned grandchildren. Five years later, their group in Alexandra, a Johannesburg township, has grown to 40 and spawned dozens of oth
Ethiopia: WFP Scheme Sustaining Thousands Affected By HIV: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 7, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] Nairobi - A UN World Food Programme (WFP) initiative is providing nutritional support to thousands of poor, HIV-affected families in Ethiopia , where hunger is still a major problem more than twenty years after famine killed an estimated one mi
Sudan: Fighting the HIV/Aids Enemy in Darfur: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 6, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] Nairobi - A group of faith-based organisations is teaching communities affected by three years of conflict in the Darfur region of western Sudan to defend themselves against HIV/AIDS. The lives of more than three million people have been disrup
Zambia: Crushing stones is not child's play: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 6, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LUSAKA, 6 Sep 2006 (IRIN) - Maria Banda, just five years old, and her grandmother, Aineli, spend every day breaking stones into gravel in quarries a few kilometres from the heart of Zambia s capital, Lusaka. Hundreds of others are doing the same
South Africa: Govt AIDS gag unconstitutional - watchdog: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 6, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 6 September (PLUSNEWS) - An order by South African health director-general Thami Mseleku that provincial health officials not comment to the media on HIV/AIDS was unconstitutional, the Public Service Accountability Monitor (PSAM),
South Africa: AIDS experts want health minister's blood: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 6, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 6 September (PLUSNEWS) - SOUTH AFRICA: AIDS experts want health minister s blood More than 60 international HIV/AIDS researchers are calling for the immediate resignation of South African Health Minister Manto Tshabalala-Msimang.
South Africa: Prison ARV ruling to be honoured - Govt: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 5, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 5 September (PLUSNEWS) - The South African government has agreed to respect a High Court ruling compelling it to provide antiretroviral (ARV) treatment to inmates at Westville Prison in the port city of Durban. Compliance followed
South Africa: Govt rethinks new TB strain claims: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 5, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 5 September (PLUSNEWS) - South Africa s department of health said on Monday that it had put systems in place to monitor the extent of an extremely drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB) strain in the east-coast province of KwaZulu-Na
South Africa: Aspen cashing in on ARV market: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 5, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 5 September (PLUSNEWS) - Africa s largest drug manufacturer, Aspen Pharmacare, says five times more South Africans are using its antiretrovirals (ARVs) than just over a year ago. Aspen director Stephen Saad confirmed that the numbe
Kenya: Widows Who Refuse to Be Inherited Care for Orphans: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 4, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] Nairobi - St Claire s Orphanage in the western Kenyan city of Kisumu also shelters widows who do not wish to follow the traditional practice of being inherited by their husbands brothers. When a man dies, his wife will be inherited by his broth
South Africa: New comic book on HIV/AIDS launched for deaf community: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 4, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations ] JOHANNESBURG - Using illustrations of South African Sign Language instead of speech bubbles, a new comic book is reaching out to the deaf community with messages about HIV and AIDS, sexual violence and sexual rights. The 14-page Are Your Right
South Africa: Govt probes AIDS asylum reports: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 4, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG - The South African government said on Sunday it had contacted the Canadian authorities after reports that a large number of its HIV-positive nationals have allegedly applied for asylum in the North American country after attending
Africa: Gender inequality driving HIV - UN AIDS envoy: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 4, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI - Gender inequality and the inability of women to negotiate safe sex are behind the continued spread of the pandemic, according to Stephen Lewis, UN special envoy for HIV/AIDS in Africa. In some parts of the world there is terrible gende
Southern Africa: AIDS impacts on Govt resources - IDASA: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 4, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG - HIV/AIDS is placing a serious economic and political burden on electoral systems in southern Africa, a new study by the Institute for Democracy in South Africa (IDASA) has found. Titled The Impact of HIV/AIDS on Electoral Systems
Kenya: Public transport crews linked to HIV in schoolgirls: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 4, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI - The culture of sare , or free rides from minibus taxi crews, is one of the causes of HIV infection among Kenyan schoolgirls, according to a new survey by Merlin International, a UK-based medical relief charity. The survey revealed that
South Africa: Health department ups spending on female condoms: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 4, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG - South Africa s Department of Health has allocated R38 million (US$5 million) to increasing the distribution of female condoms this year. According to spokesperson Sibani Mngadi, the health department is to distribute three million
Zambia: Advocacy groups put HIV/AIDS on the election agenda: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 4, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations ] LUSAKA - Advocacy groups in Zambia are forcing HIV/AIDS issues onto the agenda in the run-up to this month s general election. All election candidates should make clear their personal commitment to tackling HIV and AIDS because we want Zambian
South Africa: Govt calm about new TB strain: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 4, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG - South Africa s department of health says there is no need for alarm over reports of a new strain of tuberculosis (TB) in its east-coast province of KwaZulu-Natal. Earlier this year, Medical Research Council (MRC) experts stressed
Kenya: ARV Dropouts Down With Comprehensive Care: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 1, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations ] Nairobi - A high level of adherence to life-prolonging antiretroviral (ARV) medication is possible even among poor, uneducated communities, as long as comprehensive AIDS care is provided, according to health workers. Comprehensive AIDS care in
Nigeria: Oldest and youngest carry the AIDS burden: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 1, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NEW KARU, 1 Sep 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Sometimes when stooped and grey-haired Kuzonyawo Tanko picks up his hoe to walk to the fields and farm, he breaks down and cries at the misfortune that AIDS has brought on his family. Kuzonyawo and his wif
Botswana: Civil servants targeted in VCT drive: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 1, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 1 September (PLUSNEWS) - At least 20 percent of civil servants in Botswana are being targeted for voluntary HIV counselling and testing, said Mmaoneka Makati, assistant director of the Directorate of Public Service Management. The c
Trade Deal Could Threaten HIV/Aids Treatments - Health Experts: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 31, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations ] Bangkok - Health professionals and activists fear a proposed bilateral trade deal between Thailand and the United States will hit the availability and price of life-saving HIV/AIDS drugs. Thailand has won international accolades for its ef
Congo-Kinshasa: Safe Blood for Transfusions Still Problematic: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 31, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] Bukavu - Blood that has been tested and is safe for transfusion is a rarity in the South Kivu Province of the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Despite a return to relative calm after a peace accord ended almost a decade of conflict i
Zambia: Bridging the gap between traditional and western medicine: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 31, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LUSAKA, 31 August (PLUSNEWS) - Zambia s HIV/AIDS pandemic is helping to bridge the divide between traditional healers and practitioners of western medicine. Earlier this year the government commissioned the first clinical trials of remedies disp
Swaziland: Turning the corner on AIDS by using the youth: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 31, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 31 August (PLUSNEWS) - In the past four months Gerald Ndwandwe, 22, has buried three friends he has known since primary school. He does not want to lose any more. So many of my friends have HIV. They won t admit it, and that makes
Africa: WHO makes progress in Africa's HIV/AIDS fight: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 31, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 31 August (PLUSNEWS) - The World Health Organisation (WHO) is making steady progress in combating the HIV/AIDS epidemic and improving health sectors in 46 African countries. Dr Louis Sambo, the WHO regional head for Africa, present
Uganda: Majority of Lira workers don't use condoms - report: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 31, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 31 August (PLUSNEWS) - An estimated 70 percent of workers in the informal sector in the town of Lira, northern Uganda , do not use condoms as protection against HIV/AIDS, according to a new survey by the Platform for Labour Action (PLA)
Zimbabwe: New Zealand gives amnesty to HIV-positive Zimbabweans: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 31, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 31 August (PLUSNEWS) - The government of New Zealand has urged hundreds of Zimbabwean refugees who fear they may be HIV-positive to take advantage of a special scheme granting them permanent residence despite their sero-status. New
Kenya: Religious leaders spread HIV message: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 30, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 30 August (PLUSNEWS) - In the crowded shantytowns of Eastlands in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi, a new voice has emerged in the fight against HIV/AIDS: Catholic, Protestant and Muslim religious leaders are now educating their members abou
Afghanistan: UNESCO helps officials to raise awareness on HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 30, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KABUL, 30 Aug 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - A two-day United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) workshop designed to help raise students awareness of HIV/AIDS has been held in Kabul. Roxanna Shapour, a UNESCO public inf
South Africa: Many HIV-positive pregnant women not receiving nevirapine - study: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 30, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 30 August (PLUSNEWS) - Nearly a quarter of pregnant women who test positive for HIV in South Africa s Gauteng Province are not receiving nevirapine to prevent mother-to-child transmission of the virus. Farrah Ismail, a registra
Libya: Death penalty sought in HIV infection case: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 30, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 30 August (PLUSNEWS) - A Libyan prosecutor has demanded the death penalty for five Bulgarian nurses and a Palestinian doctor standing trial for the second time on charges of deliberately infecting more than 400 Libyan children with the
Uganda: NGO to give female prisoners HIV/AIDS education: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 30, 2006; NAIROBI, 30 August (PLUSNEWS) - Sisters United Uganda , a community-based nongovernmental organisation, has launched a fundraising campaign to improve conditions for female inmates in the country s largest jail. We visited Luzira Prison and saw children and their mothers suffering. We want to conduct health promotions
South Africa: Doctors accuse health minister of breaking the law: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 30, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 30 August (PLUSNEWS) - The South African Medical Association (SAMA) has described Health Minister Manto Tshabalala-Msimang s exaggerated emphasis on nutrition for the treatment of AIDS as regrettable and against the law. Dr Kgosi L
Ethiopia: VCT attendance on the increase: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 30, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 30 August (PLUSNEWS) - More than 200,000 people made use of voluntary counselling and testing (VCT) services in Ethiopia during the past fiscal year, according to Dereje Seyoum, acting head of the HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control Office
South Africa: New AIDS death stats revealed: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 30, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 30 August (PLUSNEWS) - At least 336,000 South Africans died of AIDS-related illnesses in the past year, members of Parliament s science and technology portfolio committee learned on Tuesday. During a briefing on his organisation s
Ethiopia: Africa bears the brunt of global TB infections: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 30, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] ADDIS ABABA, 30 Aug 2006 (IRIN) - Twenty-five percent of global tuberculosis cases occur in Africa although the continent s population comprises only 11 percent of the world�s total, the United Nations Secretary-General s Special Envoy to Stop
Cameroon: Stigma helps charlatans selling AIDS cures to flourish: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 29, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] YAOUNDE, 29 August (PLUSNEWS) - Many Cameroonians view HIV/AIDS as a shameful disease. Reluctant to disclose or accept their HIV positive status, they consult charlatans claiming to cure the disease, who not only fail but often worsen their clie
South Africa: SACC to mediate govt/NGOs on AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 29, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 29 August (PLUSNEWS) - The South African Council of Churches (SACC) wants to get government, business and civil society together to step up efforts to fight HIV/AIDS. Senior SACC officials were alarmed by recent reports by the AIDS
South Africa: Science mooted against disease and poverty: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 29, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 29 August (PLUSNEWS) - Africa will not meet the UN Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) on a number of levels without the proper science or experts in place, according to South Africa s Minister of Science and Technology, Mosibudi M
Zambia: Bridging the gap between traditional and western medicine: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 28, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LUSAKA, 28 Aug 2006 (IRIN) - Zambia s HIV/AIDS pandemic is helping to bridge the divide between traditional healers and practitioners of western medicine. Earlier this year the government commissioned the first clinical trials of remedies dispe
Swaziland: Critics slam findings on female sexual activity: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 28, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MBABANE, 28 August (PLUSNEWS) - Swazi women have more sexual partners than men, a new study has found, but critics of the controversial report say this is driven by poverty. Sixty percent of sexually active women said they had had at least two s
Cote D Ivoire: Fear and silence impede services for rape survivors: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 28, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MAN, 28 August (PLUSNEWS) - When soldiers are responsible for sexual violence, fear of reprisal largely explains the culture of silence that prevents families and communities from reporting them. The most difficult task for humanitarian workers
Kenya: Senator takes public HIV-test: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 28, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 28 August (PLUSNEWS) - United States Senator Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle, took HIV tests to raise awareness of the virus in the western Kenyan city of Kisumu on Saturday as part of their 15-day African tour. According to Ken
South Africa: Government pressured to review HIV/AIDS communication strategy: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 25, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 25 August (PLUSNEWS) - In a response to the recent barrage of criticisms directed at its HIV/AIDS policies, the South African government announced plans yesterday to set up a task team to review its HIV/AIDS communication strategy.
Rwanda: Guarding against HIV in prisons: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 24, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KIGALI, 24 August (PLUSNEWS) - Kigali Central Prison (KCP), in the capital of Rwanda , has the nation s highest number of HIV-positive prisoners. This one [visitor] has been more difficult to keep out. You can t see it coming and it is impossibl
Uganda: Foreign envoys demand action against Global Fund culprits: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 23, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KAMPALA, 23 August (PLUSNEWS) - European envoys in the Ugandan capital, Kampala, have asked the government to take expeditious action against individuals, including senior politicians, accused of mismanaging HIV/AIDS grants. A group of diplomats
Malawi: When traditions become dangerous: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 23, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LILONGWE, 23 August (PLUSNEWS) - Mzimba district in Northern Malawi has one of the country s highest HIV rates but many people still hold to the belief that wife inheritance, chokolo , is the only way of preventing relatives from grabbing proper
Zambia: Education sector losing 800 teachers to AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 23, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 23 August (PLUSNEWS) - Zambia is losing 800 teachers every year to AIDS-related illnesses, the Zambia National Union of teachers (ZNUT) has revealed. The country has had a critical shortage of teachers, and this has been worsened b
Ethiopia: WFP to provide food for HIV-affected households: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 23, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] ADDIS ABABA, 23 August (PLUSNEWS) - The UN s World Food Programme (WFP) signed an agreement on Wednesday in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa, to expand its urban HIV/AIDS programme to provide nutritional assistance to 110,000 people in 14 town
South Africa: Resistant tuberculosis on the rise: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 23, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 23 August (PLUSNEWS) - A deadly new strain of tuberculosis (TB) that is resistant to virtually all available medications is becoming increasingly common in South Africa . According to Dr Karin Weyer, of the Medical Research Council
Global: Toronto AIDS conference focuses on prevention: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 22, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 22 August (PLUSNEWS) - As the 26,000 delegates who attended the 16th International AIDS Conference in Toronto, Canada , prepared to head home on Friday, the pervading mood was one of guarded optimism. The conference theme, Tim
Kenya: AIDS orphans at greater risk of exploitation: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 22, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 22 August (PLUSNEWS) - More than 800,000 children orphaned by the AIDS pandemic in Kenya are at a high risk of being exploited sexually and in the workplace, says the African Network for the Prevention and Protection of Child Abuse and
Tanzania: Calls for HIV policy to include the elderly: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 22, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 22 August (PLUSNEWS) - Elderly Tanzanians should be included in national HIV/AIDS policies, given their vital contribution as caregivers of people infected with the disease, said participants in a recent two-day media workshop in the co
Namibia: ARV rollout on target: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 22, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 22 August (PLUSNEWS) - Namibia s Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr Richard Kamwi, says the target of providing life-prolonging antiretroviral (ARV) therapy to 30,000 HIV positive patients before a 2008 deadline is on course and
South Africa: US Senator criticises AIDS response: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 22, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 22 August (PLUSNEWS) - United States Senator Barack Obama has criticised South Africa s leaders for their HIV/AIDS policy, saying health minister Manto Tshabalala-Msimang was making a terrible mistake by promoting traditional medicines
Uganda: Home-based HIV counselling and testing in camps for internally displaced: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 21, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 21 August (PLUSNEWS) - The International Rescue Committee (IRC) in Northern Uganda has begun operating home-based HIV counselling and testing in ten camps for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the Kitgum region. HIV has spread
Africa: Hunger and HIV go hand in hand, experts warn: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 18, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] TORONTO, 18 August (PLUSNEWS) - After five days of high-profile debate about the latest scientific developments in HIV prevention and treatment, talk at the International AIDS Conference in Toronto turned on Thursday to one of the major drivers
Africa: Activists call for leadership to combat HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 18, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] TORONTO, 18 August (PLUSNEWS) - Mark Heywood, national treasurer of the South African AIDS lobby group, Treatment Action Campaign (TAC), used the International AIDS Conference in Toronto as a platform on Thursday to implore the world to speak ou
Africa: Combined malaria/AIDS treatment urged: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 18, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 18 August (PLUSNEWS) - South African musician Yvonne Chaka Chaka, a UN Children s Fund (Unicef) ambassador, has called for greater attention and resources to be devoted to malaria and HIV co-infection, particularly in pregnant wome
Africa: Lewis says G8 promises unravelling: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 18, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 18 August (PLUSNEWS) - The UN Special Envoy on AIDS in Africa, Stephen Lewis, has accused wealthy countries of betraying Africa by failing to make available funds promised to tackle the pandemic. The promises made by the G8 [Group
Cote D Ivoire: UN condemns nation's prison conditions: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 17, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] ABIDJAN, 17 Aug 2006 (IRIN) - The United Nations peacekeeping mission in Cote d Ivoire on Thursday issued a scathing report on the country s penitentiary system, saying people were being held in overcrowded, unsanitary, crumbling prisons, with
Africa: Circumcision urged as protection against HIV: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 17, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] TORONTO, 17 August (PLUSNEWS) - Scientists at the International AIDS Conference in Toronto have been calling for urgent action on compelling evidence that circumcision may reduce a man s vulnerability to HIV infection by as much as 60 percent.
Uganda: Funding shortages threatening HIV programmes: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 17, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KAMPALA, 17 August (PLUSNEWS) - Public health programmes in Uganda are seriously short of money, putting the lives of tens of thousands of HIV-positive people at risk, says a new report. Funding the Promise: Monitoring Uganda s Health Sector Fin
Africa: WFP wants more than just ARVs: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 17, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 17 August (PLUSNEWS) - The World Food Programme (WFP) said on Wednesday that although donor nations were pumping huge sums of cash into HIV/AIDS treatment in Africa, Asia and Latin America, little thought was given to nutrition.
Africa: Drug giant backs kiddie AIDS care: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 17, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 17 August (PLUSNEWS) - US drug giant Bristol-Myers Squibb (BMS) said on Wednesday it would deploy 50 paediatric doctors to sub-Saharan Africa each year for the next five years as part of efforts to treat HIV-positive children.
Africa: AIDS fight needs more health staff - WHO: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 17, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 17 August (PLUSNEWS) - A shortage of four million doctors and nurses, mainly in African countries, has become the major obstacle to tackling HIV/AIDS, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). Sub-Saharan Africa was worst a
South Africa: Prison AIDS death angers TAC: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 17, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 17 August (PLUSNEWS) - The South African AIDS lobby group, Treatment Action Campaign (TAC) is baying for blood after the recent AIDS-related death of an inmate at Westville Prison in the port city of Durban. TAC chairperson Zackie
Sudan: Minister calls on media to join anti-AIDS campaign: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 17, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 17 August (PLUSNEWS) - Sudanese Minister of Health Tabitha Boutrous has called on the media to play a more active role in the fight against HIV/AIDS by educating the nation about the pandemic. According to the state-run Sudan News Agenc
Southern Africa: Band aid for medical brain drain: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 16, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG , 16 Aug 2006 (IRIN) - New laws introduced by the British government this week are unwittingly giving the southern African region a temporary reprieve from the brain drain of medical staff. The new laws stipulate that employers in
Kenya: Caring for children affected by HIV: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 16, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 16 August (PLUSNEWS) - New Life Home in Nairobi, the Kenyan capital, has 51 abandoned HIV-positive babies under the age of two at its main centre, while several other satellite homes around the country care for older children. These are
Africa: Grandmothers take a stand against AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 16, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 16 August (PLUSNEWS) - More than 300 women took to the streets of Toronto, Canada , this week in a Grandmothers to Grandmothers march to raise awareness of the plight of African women who increasingly take on the role of parenting
Africa: Gates Foundation puts support behind sex workers: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 16, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 16 August (PLUSNEWS) - The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has called on governments across the globe to stop ignoring sex workers in their HIV/AIDS campaigns. We need to put the power to prevent HIV in the hands of women ... whe
Africa: OVC are continent's new AIDS challenge - UNICEF: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 16, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 16 August (PLUSNEWS) - More than 15 million orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) in sub-Saharan Africa will have lost one or both parents to AIDS by 2010, the UN Children s Fund (Unicef) said in a new report this week. The report
Africa: US abstinence campaign bashed: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 16, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 16 August (PLUSNEWS) - The US came under attack on Tuesday for tying millions of dollars to its policy of teaching sexual abstinence in poor nations, which senior UN officials say is causing more harm than good. Although the UN spe
PanAfrica: Donors Failing Global Fund, Says Report: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 15, 2006; Toronto - Most G8 countries are reneging on financial commitments to support the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, according to a report card released at the International AIDS conference in Toronto, Canada . The findings, prepared by an alliance of health advocacy groups, graded 22 of the wealthiest
KENYA: Bar hostesses vow to fight AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 15, 2006; NAIROBI - Bar hostesses in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi, met on Thursday and Friday last week to discuss their rights, working conditions and HIV/AIDS before the weekend trade kicked off. According to Kenya s Daily Nation newspaper, Beatrice Nyawira of the Kenya Bar Hostess AIDS Programme, said 5.2 percent of people liv
TANZANIA: Zanzibar government pushes for more HIV testing: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 15, 2006; NAIROBI - Legislators on the semiautonomous Tanzanian island of Zanzibar have all taken HIV tests as part of plans to encourage increased screening to stem the pandemic. Members of the Zanzibari parliament, led by the speaker, Pandu Ameir Kificho, have shown the way - we have all undergone blood screening to check for
GLOBAL: Face reality of drug resistance, warns MSF: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 15, 2006; TORONTO - Medical humanitarian organisation, Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF), continues to be the lone voice sounding the alarm about the cost and availability of newer AIDS medicines in developing countries. Several speakers at the start of the International AIDS Conference in Toronto this week, suggested that the cost
Southern Africa: 'Lethal Cocktail' to Blame for HIV - Study: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 14, 2006; A lethal cocktail of low condom use by people with multiple sexual partners, combined with low levels of male circumcision, are the key factors driving soaring rates of HIV/AIDS in Southern Africa, the epicentre of the global epidemic, according to a study released on Monday. Casting doubt on long-held beliefs about ho
Southern Africa: Study Urges New 'DRC' Model to Fight HIV: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 14, 2006; In the fight against HIV/AIDS, think DRC and not ABC , a new Southern African Development Community (SADC) report says. The report, released on Monday, said the old model of controlling the lethal virus through a programme of ABC (Abstinence, Being faithful and Condom use) should be replaced by DRC - Delaying sex, Redu
LEBANON: Drug shortage threatens HIV/AIDS patients: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 11, 2006; BEIRUT - The lives of hundreds of Lebanese living with HIV and AIDS are under threat owing to the shortage of essential drugs in the country, health care workers said. In one month, should the situation continue to deteriorate, HIV/AIDS patients problems will no doubt multiply, said Mustafa al-Naqib, a physician and di
AFRICA: Gates Foundation cash injection for Global Fund: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 11, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG - The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation this week announced a contribution of US$500 million to the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. The money, to be given over five years, was the largest private donation to the
NIGERIA: Govt tough on HIV blood blunder: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 11, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG - Nigeria s Federal Government has authorised the dismissal of key officials at Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), after an infant was infected with HIV during a blood transfusion. The baby tested HIV-positive just nine days
Iraq: HIV-positive couple murdered: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 9, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] BAGHDAD, 9 Aug 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - First came the phone call - a man who accused Farid Abbas of carrying an indecent disease and telling him that he d be killed for the safety of the country . Two days later, 42-year-old Abbas, who had been
Southern Africa: Still Gripped By Poverty, Aids, Erratic Weather - WFP: Integrated Regional Information Networks - September 8, 2006; The costs of funerals and medicines are contributing to southern Africa s dire food situation, with three million people facing shortages, the World Food Programme (WFP) said. Despite harvests improving in southern Africa, the effects of poverty and erratic weather conditions were compounded by the most vulnerable peop
DRC: Security situation in North Kivu remains precarious: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 8, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] GOMA, 8 Aug 2006 (IRIN) - War-weary residents of the Democratic Republic of Congo s North Kivu Province turned up in large numbers to vote in July s elections, hoping that the new leaders they chose would restore security to the region. There
Liberia: HIV/AIDS education, a first for Liberian classrooms: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 8, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MONROVIA, 8 Aug 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - HIV/AIDS will be on the curriculum next month for 10,000 Liberian students at the Lutheran Church School System, the third largest church-school network in Liberia, which has made HIV/AIDS education mandat
Swaziland: Toll-free helpline to curb suicides: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 8, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MBABANE, 8 Aug 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - A clash of the old world and the new, recession and the increasing incidence of HIV/AIDS in Swaziland has seen the suicide rate spike to such levels that the country has established its first toll-free help
Tanzania: Free food programme to complement free ARVs: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 8, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] DAR ES SALAAM, 8 August (PLUSNEWS) - The treatment and care of HIV-positive Tanzanians, more than half of whom live below the poverty line, must go well beyond merely providing life-prolonging medication if it is to be successful. Most patients
Africa: AIDS and brain drain vie for health workers: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 8, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 8 August (PLUSNEWS) - A new study by researchers at Boston University in the US says African healthcare workers are contracting HIV faster than they are being lured abroad by better paying jobs. According to their findings, publish
Uganda: Increased condom urged for HIV prevention: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 8, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 8 August (PLUSNEWS) - Ugandan Vice-President Gilbert Bukenya is lobbying for condoms to form a bigger part of HIV prevention efforts, the local New Vision newspaper reported. Uganda has often attributed its significant decline in H
Tanzania: Give AIDS accurate media attention - activists: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 8, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 8 August (PLUSNEWS) - The Tanzania Commission for AIDS (TACAIDS) has urged the local media to give HIV/AIDS issues greater prominence. Let us strive to communicate accurate AIDS messages with passion, the local Sunday Observer new
Kenya: New youth anti-HIV mode effective - study: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 8, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 8 August (PLUSNEWS) - Low-cost prevention methods are able to reduce unintended pregnancies and curb the spread of HIV among Kenyan girls, a new study has shown. A survey of 70,000 students in 328 schools over three years by the UK
Tanzania: "Enormous" response to World Cup anti-AIDS adverts: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 4, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 4 August (PLUSNEWS) - Members of Tanzania s national soccer team have used their celebrity status to spread educational messages about HIV/AIDS prevention, to reduce the estimated seven percent infection rate. Population Services I
Tanzania: Gov't lacks accurate HIV statistics: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 4, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 4 August (PLUSNEWS) - Tanzania s lack of current, accurate HIV statistics is causing concern about the government s ability to create effective strategies to reduce the spread of the virus. Inconsistent statistics caused a heated d
Swaziland: AIDS activists say sexual offences bill criminalises victims: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 3, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MBABANE, 3 Aug 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Groups representing Swaziland s HIV-positive population are angry at a proposed Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Act mandating life prison terms for rapists who infect their victims with HIV, claiming
Zimbabwe: Reserve Bank backs govt on AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 3, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 3 August (PLUSNEWS) - Zimbabwe s Ministry of Health confirmed on Thursday that it would be receiving US$1 million a month from the country s Reserve Bank for procuring essential medicines, including antiretroviral (ARV) drugs.
Africa: Canada behind on AIDS drug promise: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 3, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 3 August (PLUSNEWS) - Canada is yet to act on legislation passed two years ago to enable the supply of affordable anti-AIDS drugs to Africa, the international medical NGO, Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF), said on Thursday. The l
Rwanda: Managing HIV Among Refugee Populations: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 2, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] Kigali, More than 40,000 Congolese refugees living in camps in neighbouring Rwanda depend on the generosity of donors and their host nation, who provide them with everything from food and water to education and health services. Most fled th
DRC: Rape victims hope new leaders will halt violence: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 2, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] BUKAVU, 2 Aug 2006 (IRIN) - Large numbers of women took part in Sunday s elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo s South Kivu Province in the hope that the new leaders would clamp down on the violence perpetrated by militants, say civil s
Zimbabwe: Govt policies hampering AIDS efforts: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 1, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 1 August (PLUSNEWS) - Human Rights Watch (HRW) warns in a new report that the Zimbabwean government s policies might be reversing gains made against HIV/AIDS. Formerly a high-prevalence country, Zimbabwe became the first Southern A
DRC: Help and justice for raped, displaced women: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 1, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LUBUMBASHI, 1 August (PLUSNEWS) - Seven years after she was gang-raped by a dozen soldiers and had to flee her village near Kalemie, in northern Katanga Province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Masoka Furha is still trying to reco
DRC: Hoping to counter the war legacy of rising HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 1, 2006; KINSHASA, 1 August (IRIN) - After years of conflict, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is now faced with a new challenge: to prevent the number of HIV infections from escalating to those in neighbouring countries. According to the national AIDS programme (PNLS), there were about 1.2 million HIV-positive people in
Africa: New report laments adolescent HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - August 1, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 1 August (PLUSNEWS) - Young people in developing countries are in growing danger of HIV infection because of forces beyond their control, an NGO said on Monday. In a report released ahead of the upcoming International AIDS Conferen
Kenya: Men abandon tradition to fight HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 31, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KISUMU, 31 July (PLUSNEWS) - On Saturday afternoons the 69 members of the Kisumu chapter of the Movement of Men Against AIDS (MMAAK) in Kenya s Nyanza Province gather in a dusty hall in the Manyatta slum to discuss their problems and find new wa
Africa: HI virus plays hide and seek - study: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 31, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 31 July (PLUSNEWS) - A team of US researchers have found that HIV is able to survive efforts to destroy it by concealing itself in the mucosal tissue of the human intestine. According to scientists at the University of California,
Africa: WHO calls for TB/AIDS programme interaction: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 31, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 31 July (PLUSNEWS) - The World Health Organisation (WHO) has called for better coordination of global HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis (TB) programmes to be discussed at the upcoming International AIDS Conference in Toronto,
Kenya: Govt shoots down amendment that could have seen drug prices soar: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 28, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 28 July (PLUSNEWS) - The Kenyan government has yielded to civil society pressure to remove sections of a Miscellaneous Amendments Bill that would have made it more difficult to import cheap generic drugs. Minister of Justice Martha Karu
Nigeria: Crackdown on dodgy blood banks: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 28, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LAGOS, 28 July (PLUSNEWS) - HIV/AIDS has led to a far greater focus on safe donor blood than ever before but operating a blood bank or laboratory in Lagos, Nigeria s largest city, has not been strictly regulated until recently. Despite documente
Southern Africa: Volunteers help carry AIDS burden: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 28, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 28 July (PLUSNEWS) - Ordinary people are doing extraordinary things for the battle against HIV/AIDS in Southern Africa, one of the world s regions hardest hit by the pandemic. One such individual, is Winnie Mabaso, a retired nurse,
Zambia: Possible AIDS increase through mining: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 28, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 28 July (PLUSNEWS) - Increased mining activity in Zambia s Copperbelt province of could result in higher HIV prevalence rates for the area, an AIDS NGO has said. The Copperbelt AIDS Task Force, said that functional mining towns als
South Africa: AIDS dementia a concern - SASOP: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 28, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 28 July (PLUSNEWS) - The South African Society of Psychiatrists (SASOP) says more emphasis must be placed on the emotional and neurological effects of AIDS on HIV-positive people. SASOP advised that the care of people living with t
Swaziland: Food aid still needed after another poor harvest: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 27, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MBABANE, 27 July (PLUSNEWS) - Swaziland will once again be reliant on food aid this year to feed one-fifth of its people, according to the UN s World Food Programme (WFP). Cereal production was even lower in 2006 than last year due to poor rains
Kenya: Married adolescent girls missing out on the HIV message: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 27, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 27 July (PLUSNEWS) - Kenyan HIV/AIDS awareness programmes for young people are bypassing those who are married, raising their risk of contracting the virus. Azina, 19, from the downmarket suburb of Ziwani in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi,
Namibia: Business can do better on AIDS - expert: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 27, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 27 July (PLUSNEWS) - Namibian businesses have the power to address HIV/AIDS in the workplace, according to Brian Brink, vice-president of the international mining giant, Anglo American. Brink, who is also a board member of the Priv
South Africa: AIDS gathering to promote teamwork: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 27, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 27 July (PLUSNEWS) - South Africa s third national HIV/AIDS conference next year will seek joint strategies against the pandemic, Human Sciences Research Council director Olive Shisana has said. Unlike previous conferences, which w
Africa: Drug giants commit to combating AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 27, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 27 July (PLUSNEWS) - Global pharmaceutical and diagnostic companies have pledged to help meet the UN Millennium Development Goal of achieving universal access to HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment by 2010. UN Secretary-General Kofi
Africa: Media getting the word out on HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 26, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 26 July (PLUSNEWS) - Media coverage of health issues in sub-Saharan Africa has been inadequate in terms of both content and quantity, but more creative approaches are now being used to address these shortcomings. Some major social
Kenya: Public protest amendment that could raise drug prices: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 26, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 26 July (PLUSNEWS) - Hundreds of HIV-positive Kenyans and civil society activists marched through the streets of the capital, Nairobi, on Tuesday to protest against proposed amendments to legislation that they say would make their treat
Africa: New-version kaletra victory for MSF: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 26, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 26 July (PLUSNEWS) - A new version of the second-line antiretroviral (ARV) drug, Kaletra , began arriving in parts of West and Southern Africa this week, thanks to the efforts of the international medical charity, Medecins Sans Fro
Uganda: FGM among the Pokot heightens HIV risk: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 25, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] AMUDAT, 25 July (PLUSNEWS) - The traditional practice of cutting a girl s genitalia still marks the transition to womanhood among the Pokot in the northeastern Ugandan region of Karamoja, despite growing fears that the ritual is fuelling the spr
Rwanda: Gates funds AIDS training centre: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 25, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 25 July (PLUSNEWS) - Microsoft founder Bill Gates is to establish a training facility for health professionals working with AIDS in Africa s Great Lakes region. During a brief visit to Rwanda recently, Gates pledged US$900,000
Zambia: Lewis warns against complacency: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 25, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 25 July (PLUSNEWS) - Zambia will win its fight against HIV/AIDS, government officials told UN Special Envoy for AIDS in Africa Stephen Lewis on Monday. Speaking at the start of Lewis s five-day visit to assess the government s curr
Africa: UK AIDS charity targets African immigrants: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 25, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 25 July (PLUSNEWS) - The Terence Higgins Trust (THT), a UK-based AIDS NGO, is working to promote safer sex among African immigrants in the southwestern city of Bristol. THT officials said the rising rates of HIV infection among imm
Kenya: Resistance to "sneaky" amendments that could raise ARV costs: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 24, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 24 July (PLUSNEWS) - Kenyan civil society is urging parliament to reject a bill that would make it more difficult to import cheap antiretroviral (ARV) drugs. Amendments to section 58 of the 2001 Industrial Property (IP) Act would restri
Namibia: OVC numbers expected to skyrocket - report: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 24, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 24 July (PLUSNEWS) - The number of orphans and vulnerable children in Namibia is expected to almost double by 2021, Project Hope, a US-based AIDS NGO has said. According to its latest report, Orphans and Vulnerable Children 2006 ,
Zambia: Govt concern over rural ARV/VCT access: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 24, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 24 July (PLUSNEWS) - Zambia is busy working to bring antiretroviral (ARV) drugs and voluntary counselling and testing (VCT) facilities to rural areas, Ministry of Health officials announced on Sunday. Velepi Mtonga, director of
Zimbabwe: Sweden gets behind AIDS fund raising: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 24, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 24 July (PLUSNEWS) - Sweden is mobilising donors and other European countries to support Zimbabwe s fight against HIV/AIDS, Swedish Ambassador to Zimbabwe Sten Rylander said on Friday. Most Western donors froze aid to Zimbabwe afte
TOGO: Poor ARV access amid HIV decline: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 24, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 24 July (PLUSNEWS) - Togo has almost halved its HIV prevalence rate over the past year, but antiretroviral (ARV) medication is still hard to come by for most people who need it, Reuters reported on Monday. According to official
South Africa: HIV/AIDS figures "stabilising", new report: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 21, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 21 July (PLUSNEWS) - New HIV/AIDS figures released by the South African Department of Health show that the pandemic could be stabilising, with not much change in HIV infection rates between 2004 and 2005. In its HIV and Syphilis An
Swaziland: Facing the culture shock of monogamy: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 21, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MBABANE, 21 Jul 2006 (IRIN) - Polygamy is enshrined as a man s right in Swaziland s new constitution, but women led by King Mswati s eldest daughter are having none of it, taking on the traditionalists that run the country. Polygamy brings all
Swaziland: Anti-AIDS text messaging campaign raises hackles: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 21, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MBABANE, 21 July (PLUSNEWS) - In one of the biggest demonstrations seen in Swaziland in years, HIV-positive people marched on the offices of the prime minister and the national AIDS council this week to protest an insulting new media campaign.
Botswana: Wide support for routine HIV testing - study: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 21, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 21 July (PLUSNEWS) - A University of California study shows there is wide support for Botswana s policy of routine HIV testing, from which people can opt out . The government introduced the policy in 2004 after it found that reluct
Africa: VISA fees waived for AIDS gathering: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 21, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 21 July (PLUSNEWS) - Canada s Citizenship and Immigration Office has waived its standard visa fee for thousands of international delegates attending the biannual 16th International AIDS Conference from 13 to 18 August in Toronto.
Zimbabwe: AIDS literacy campaign targets women: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 21, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 21 July (PLUSNEWS) - Zimbabwean women are the focus of a new HIV/AIDS education initiative launched by the Southern Africa HIV/AIDS Information Dissemination Service (SAfAIDS). SAfAIDS officials hailed the Women s Treatment Literac
South Africa: SAAVI praises sung by govt: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 21, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 21 July (PLUSNEWS) - The South African AIDS Vaccine Initiative (SAAVI) has made unprecedented progress towards finding an HIV vaccine, Health Minister Manto Tshabalala-Msimang said on Thursday. SAAVI has two vaccines developed by r
South Africa: Govt AIDS efforts questionable - study: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 21, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 21 July (PLUSNEWS) - Mounting levels of HIV in South Africa prove that the government is not properly addressing the pandemic, the local Institute of Race Relations (SAIRR) has said. The World Health Organisation estimated that of
Africa: Greater education sector AIDS response needed - UNAIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 20, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 20 July (PLUSNEWS) - Governments are ill-prepared to deal with the impact of HIV/AIDS on teachers and scholars, a report released by UNAIDS on Wednesday has said. Conducted among 71 education ministries, the document titled, Educa
Africa: Huge cash boost for HIV vaccine research: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 20, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 20 July (PLUSNEWS) - The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation on Wednesday pledged US$287 million in a bid to speed up research on an effective HIV vaccine. According to the BBC, the funds were being split into 16 grants for research
Zambia: Recovering Copperbelt faces new dangers: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 19, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NDOLA, 19 July (PLUSNEWS) - After a decade of unemployment, Zambia s Copperbelt region is recovering thanks to surging world copper prices. But, with among the worst HIV infection rates in the country, the legacy of the recession will be felt fo
Liberia: AIDS relief offered by Clinton Foundation: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 19, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 19 July (PLUSNEWS) - Former US president Bill Clinton agreed on Tuesday to help assist Liberia s battle against HIV/AIDS. Under the terms of an agreement signed in the capital Monrovia, the Clinton Foundation would negotiate afford
Nigeria: More ARV sites but some areas neglected - report: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 18, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LAGOS, 18 July (PLUSNEWS) - Nigeria is rolling out anti-AIDS drugs to a growing number of people living with HIV/AIDS, but getting hold of the medication is still a major struggle for those living outside key urban centres. According to the
Malawi: Week-long HIV testing campaign begins: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 18, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 18 July (PLUSNEWS) - Malawi launched a week-long HIV testing campaign on Monday, amid concerns that anti-AIDS efforts were being hampered by people not knowing their status. Health Minister Marjorie Ngaunje said in the administrati
Nigeria: Clinton steps in to boost treatment efforts: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 18, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 18 July (PLUSNEWS) - Former US president Bill Clinton has agreed to help facilitate the supply of affordable anti-AIDS drugs and HIV diagnostic equipment to Nigeria . Under the terms of an agreement signed by Nigerian Minister of H
Africa: Rights abuses undermine anti-AIDS efforts: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 18, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 18 July (PLUSNEWS) - Ongoing rights abuses are undermining global efforts against HIV/AIDS, international lobby group, Human Rights Watch (HRW), said on Monday. The group s statement was made ahead of an upcoming biannual 16th Inte
Africa: G8 AIDS promise inadequate - activists: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 18, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 18 July (PLUSNEWS) - Nongovernmental organisations have said the global battle against HIV/AIDS needs more than just promises from the Group of Eight (G8) industrialised nations. At the end of the meeting in St. Petersburg,
Tanzania: Ban on early marriage puts police within "firing range" of HIV: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 18, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] DAR ES SALAAM, 18 July (PLUSNEWS) - A law compelling newly employed police officers in Tanzania to remain single for five years is proving counterproductive, according to some government officials. Harith Bakari Mwapachu, the minister for securi
South Africa: Now heard - children's voices on HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 17, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] INGWAVUMA, 17 Jul 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - A group of rural primary school children in South Africa s KwaZulu-Natal Province are helping to break the silence about HIV/AIDS by recording their autobiographies for radio. The project is a collaborat
South Africa: New law could hamper HIV prevention: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 17, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 17 July (PLUSNEWS) - HIV/AIDS experts in South Africa fear that a new law aimed at protecting young men from the health risks associated with traditional circumcision could weaken HIV prevention efforts. The new legislation, pa
Africa: Clinton eyes second-line ARVs: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 17, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 17 July (PLUSNEWS) - Former US president Bill Clinton said on Friday that he hoped to negotiate lower prices for second-line antiretroviral (ARV) drugs by the end of 2006. The Clinton Foundation took the lead in the fight for low-c
Africa: Activist vocal on funding and treatment: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 17, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 17 July (PLUSNEWS) - The Group of Eight (G8) industrialised nations summit began on Saturday in St. Petersburg, Russia , amid calls for more funding and accuracy in HIV/AIDS treatment numbers. The AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AH
Africa: Clinton urges "ambitious" anti-AIDS goals: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 17, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 17 July (PLUSNEWS) - Former US president Bill Clinton has urged African countries to set ambitious goals in their fight against HIV/AIDS, Deutsche Presse-Agentur reported. During a visit to the African Union headquarters in the Eth
Central Asia: Weekly news wrap: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 14, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] ANKARA, 14 Jul 2006 (IRIN) - This week in Central Asia, Kyrgyzstan threatened on Wednesday to expel two US diplomats accusing them of interfering in the internal affairs of the former Soviet republic, Reuters reported. Kyrgyz authorities report
Kyrgyzstan: Global Fund acknowledges country's HIV/AIDS success: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 14, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] BISHKEK, 14 Jul 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - A specialist from the Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, speaking in the Kyrgyz capital, Bishkek, confirmed on Friday that the mountainous former Soviet republic of 5.1 million is a leade
Zambia: AIDS orphan numbers at global high: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 14, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 14 July (PLUSNEWS) - Zambia has one of the world s highest numbers of children orphaned by HIV/AIDS, UN Development Programme (UNDP) officials said on Thursday. UNDP Resident Representative Aeneas Chuma told a press conference in t
Africa: G8 to focus on infectious diseases: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 14, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 14 July (PLUSNEWS) - Global health issues, including HIV/AIDS, will feature prominently during the Group of Eight (G8) industrialised nations summit, which begins on Saturday in St. Petersburg, Russia . Russia s chief public
Nigeria: AIDS rate concern despite slight drop: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 14, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 14 July (PLUSNEWS) - Nigerian AIDS experts expressed concern on Thursday over the number of people living with the HI virus, despite a recent marginal drop in prevalence rates. Although government anti-AIDS efforts resulted in a re
South Africa: No 'doomsday' AIDS scenario - study: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 14, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 14 July (PLUSNEWS) - HIV/AIDS is expected to have a negative impact on South Africa s economic growth in coming years, but the effects will not be nearly as severe as previous predictions, according to a new study by the local Bure
Kenya: Kisumu VCT centre speaking to the hearing impaired: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KISUMU, 13 July (PLUSNEWS) - The Nyaweri Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT) Centre, in a purple and yellow freight container standing in the middle of a field in the western Kenyan city of Kisumu, was opened in response to a need for HIV/AI
Africa: UNICEF report laments plight of OVC: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 13 July (PLUSNEWS) - The UN Children s Fund (Unicef), has urged the world to prioritise orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) in the fight against HIV/AIDS. In a new report, A Call to Action: Children, the Missing Face of AIDS , Un
Ghana: VP vocal on workplace AIDS discrimination: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 13 July (PLUSNEWS) - Ghanaian Vice-President Alhaji Aliu Mahama has expressed concern over continued HIV/AIDS stigma and discrimination occurring in the workplace. Mahama told a meeting of Union Network International, a global body
South Africa: Prison ARV court battle intensifies: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 13 July (PLUSNEWS) - South Africa s AIDS Law Project (ALP) has opposed a state application for leave to appeal a court order compelling the authorities to speedily provide anti-AIDS drugs to inmates at Westville Prison, in the port
South Africa: 'AIDS fatigue' takes hold of elderly: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 13 July (PLUSNEWS) - Elderly South Africans burdened with the responsibility of caring for HIV-positive family members are starting to show signs of AIDS fatigue, government officials said on Wednesday. In introducing the Older Per
South Africa: Soap star on drugs!: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 12, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 12 July (PLUSNEWS) - In a first for South African television, a popular soap opera is to write an HIV-positive character in the stage of AIDS infection into the story. Greig Coetzee, head writer of the daily show, Isidingo , hoped
Madagascar: Govt gets tough on AIDS graft: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 12, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 12 July (PLUSNEWS) - Madagascar got tough on graft this week by suspending funding to 200 local NGOs set up to tackle HIV/AIDS in the Indian Ocean island. Executive Secretary of the National AIDS Committee Fenosoa Ratsimanetrimanan
South Africa: Youth AIDS focus on World population Day: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 12, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 12 July (PLUSNEWS) - Annual international World Population Day celebrations in South Africa on Tuesday focused on the impact of HIV/AIDS on the nation s youth. In the capital, Pretoria, Social Development Minister Zola Skweyiya sai
South Africa: Mbeki and Gates meet on AIDS issues: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 12, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 12 July (PLUSNEWS) - Computer software billionaire Bill Gates met with South African President Thabo Mbeki on Tuesday in the capital, Pretoria, to discuss issues relating to HIV/AIDS. Mbeki, who has drawn criticism for his sluggish
Namibia: Second PLWHA conference planned: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 12, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 12 July (PLUSNEWS) - Namibia s second conference on people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) is to take place from 22 to 24 August in the northern region of Oshana. The gathering, hosted by the Yelula HIV/AIDS Project, will give local P
Swaziland: Demise of sugar industry hits healthcare services: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 11, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] VUVULANE , 11 July (PLUSNEWS) - Swaziland s sugar-dependant Lubombo Province is experiencing the trickle-down effects of impending reforms in the European Union s sugar industry that are having negative consequences for the region s HIV-positive
Africa: WHO backs anti-HIV circumcision study: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 11, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 11 July (PLUSNEWS) - World Health Organisation (WHO) researchers and colleagues on Monday reported that male circumcision could prevent millions of new HIV infections, but warned against risky sexual behaviour. Analysing data from
Nigeria: Homosexuality blamed for rising HIV rates: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 11, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 11 July (PLUSNEWS) - Nigeria s National Action Committee on AIDS (NACA) has accused homosexuals of being a major obstacle in the government s efforts to tackle HIV/AIDS. NACA chief Babatunde Osotimehin recently told a press confere
South Africa: Gates checks his TB/AIDS projects: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 11, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 11 July (PLUSNEWS) - Microsoft founder Bill Gates is in Cape Town, South Africa , to assess the progress of HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis (TB) projects. He has already injected more than US$100 million into similar initiatives around t
South Africa: Govt considers fate of SANAC: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 11, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 11 July (PLUSNEWS) - South Africa is considering how to restructure its ineffective National AIDS Council (SANAC), and will make an announcement on the future of the body by the middle of August, officials said on Monday. Durin
Uganda: HIV takes root in remote, unprepared Karamoja: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAKAPIRIPIRIT, 10 July (PLUSNEWS) - Ten years ago, HIV/AIDS was unknown in the isolated semi-nomadic Karamajong communities of northeastern Uganda s volatile Karamoja region. Successive nationwide sero-surveillance reports put the rate of infect
Kenya: Changing the law to protect rape survivors, HIV-positive people: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 10 July (PLUSNEWS) - Joan Booko (not her real name), 19, was raped by two men in the western Kenyan town of Kitale in 2005. She reported the incident to the local police and went to hospital for treatment, but her attackers were release
Africa: UN AIDS envoy vocal on women's issues: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 10 July (PLUSNEWS) - The UN Special Envoy for AIDS in Africa, Stephen Lewis, has proposed the establishment of a new UN agency to protect women s rights, health and security. At a recent high-level panel on UN reform in Geneva, Lew
Zimbabwe: Global Fund to bankroll ARV scale-up: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 10 July (PLUSNEWS) - Zimbabwe says it hopes to more than double the number of people on antiretroviral (ARV) treatment to 70,000 by the end of this year, with help from the Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. R
Lesotho: Gates, Clinton and Lewis on AIDS visit: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 10 July (PLUSNEWS) - Microsoft founder Bill Gates, former US president Bill Clinton and the UN Special Envoy for AIDS in Africa, Stephen Lewis, are to assess the HIV/AIDS situation in Lesotho this week. According to Agence F
Mozambique: Lewis demands increased AIDS treatment: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 10 July (PLUSNEWS) - It is desperately urgent that Mozambique reach its anti-AIDS treatment targets by the end of this year, according to the UN s Special Envoy for AIDS in Africa, Stephen Lewis. Mozambican Health Minister Paul
Swaziland: Army takes the lead in HIV/AIDS campaign: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 7, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MBABANE, 7 July (PLUSNEWS) - The Swazi army controversially bars recruits who are HIV positive, but it has become one of the most progressive employers in the country when it comes to promoting voluntary testing among its soldiers. Brigadier-Gen
Africa: Bible commentary tackles AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 7, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 7 July (PLUSNEWS) - African scholars have produced a new Bible commentary, covering issues such as female circumcision, HIV/AIDS and homosexuality. The commentary, produced by an umbrella group of African evangelical churches, aims
South Africa: MRC raises TB/HIV co infection concerns: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 7, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 7 July (PLUSNEWS) - A study by South Africa s Medical Research Council (MRC) shows that multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) is easily transmitted from infected individuals to others, especially HIV-positive people. MRC researcher
South Africa: Prison appeal filed against ARV ruling: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 7, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 7 July (PLUSNEWS) - South Africa s Department of Correctional Services has filed an appeal against a court judgment compelling Westville Prison, in the port city of Durban, to speedily provide anti-AIDS drugs to inmates. The High C
Kenya: Getting the HIV/AIDS message to truckers and sex workers: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 6, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MALABA, 6 July (PLUSNEWS) - Long-distance truck drivers on the Mombasa-Kampala highway often spend fewer than 40 days a year at home, according to Kenyan government data. They depend on the hospitality of local inns for shelter, local eateries f
Zimbabwe: Business support sought in AIDS fight: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 6, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 6 July (PLUSNEWS) - Zimbabwe s business community should consider subsidising antiretroviral (ARV) drugs for HIV-positive workers struggling to access the medication, a government official has said. Health and Child Welfare Ministe
South Africa: Course helps traditional healers fight AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 6, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 6 July (PLUSNEWS) - Some 200 traditional healers in South Africa s port city of Durban have completed a course to strengthen their role in the fight against HIV/AIDS, the South African Broadcasting Corporation reported. The trainin
Africa: 3-in-1 ARV to ease adherence: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 6, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 6 July (PLUSNEWS) - A generic 3-in-1 anti-AIDS pill, recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration ( FDA ), could greatly ease daily treatment regimens for patients in developing countries, a senior US official said on W
Uganda: Kabale men pressured on VCT: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 6, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 6 July (PLUSNEWS) - Uganda s Joint Clinical Research Centre (JCRC) is urging men in Kabale district to use the voluntary counselling testing (VCT) services to determine their HIV status. JCRC chief Dr Muhereza Mukuzi said most men
Somalia: Youth-friendly magazine passing on HIV/AIDS message: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 5, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] HARGEYSA, 5 July (PLUSNEWS) - In the self-declared republic of Somaliland, where discussions about sex remain taboo, a group of young people have been passing the HIV/AIDS message on to their peers through a youth-friendly magazine, Koor. The
Malawi: Keep treatment programme simple, experts warn: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 5, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 5 July (PLUSNEWS) - As the Malawian government takes stock of its anti-AIDS treatment programme, health officials have been faced with the question: how does a poor country with a serious epidemic and an overburdened health system
Tanzania: Policy indecision, staff shortages jeopardise PMTCT programmes: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 5, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] DAR ES SALAAM, 5 July (PLUSNEWS) - Indecision over the policy for prescribing and dispensing antiretroviral (ARV) drugs in Tanzania is restricting access by HIV-positive pregnant women, who bear the brunt of the pandemic, according to national s
Africa: Australia AIDS cash injection announced: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 5, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 5 July (PLUSNEWS) - Australia s Foreign Minister, Alexander Downer, on Wednesday announced a further US$17 million pledge to help tackle HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis (TB) and malaria in developing countries. Downer said the funds would b
Uganda: Govt gets strict on wilful infection: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 5, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 5 July (PLUSNEWS) - The Ugandan parliament could soon deliberate on proposed legislation calling for the death penalty for HIV-positive people who wilfully infect minors. Doctor Elioda Tumwesigye, a member of parliament, confirmed
Uganda: Another Global Fund blacklisting possible: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 5, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 5 July (PLUSNEWS) - Uganda may again lose its support from the Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, just months after having had a suspension lifted, the local Monitor newspaper reported. Some activists suspecte
Libya: Doctor/nurses AIDS case resumes: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 5, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 5 July (PLUSNEWS) - A retrial of five Bulgarian nurses and a Palestinian doctor accused of infecting hundreds of Libyan children with HIV resumed on Tuesday at a criminal court in the Libyan capital, Tripoli. The six healthcare pro
South Africa: Govt helps replenish Global Fund kitty: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 5, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 5 July (PLUSNEWS) - South African Health Minister Manto Tshabalala-Msimang has announced an additional US$600,000 pledge for this year to the Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. Tshabalala-Msimang said this contrib
Africa: Report highlights G8 shortcomings: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 4, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 4 July (PLUSNEWS) - A report by Debt AIDS Trade Africa (DATA), a debt relief advocacy group, says the Group of Eight (G8) industrialised nations has failed in its efforts against HIV/AIDS in developing countries. In 2005 the G8 lea
Uganda: Govt reacts to ARV shortage claims: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 4, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 4 July (PLUSNEWS) - Uganda s Ministry of Health has allayed fears that its free antiretroviral (ARV) rollout programme had hit a roadblock. The response followed recent reports from AIDS activists that depleted ARV supplies were fo
Tanzania: AIDS education as rare as tanzanite: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 4, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 4 July (PLUSNEWS) - Miners of the rare tanzanite gemstones at Mererani mine in Tanzania s Simanjiro District say they are being overlooked by HIV/AIDS education campaigns. According to the local Arusha Times newspaper, anti-AIDS or
Uganda: New board game makes HIV education fun: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 3, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KAMPALA, 3 July (PLUSNEWS) - Rather than preaching HIV/AIDS prevention messages to students, the government has unveiled a board game warning of the dangers of careless sexual behaviour. Throw a 1 and you will be advised to always wear a condom
Africa: Global Fund monies fall short: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 3, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 3 July (PLUSNEWS) - The Global Fund To Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria is calling on wealthy nations in Asia, Europe and the Middle East to increase their contributions, Reuters reported. Senior officials for the Fund said som
Zambia: Low VCT take-up worrying: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 3, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 3 July (PLUSNEWS) - Zambian National AIDS Council (NAC) director Dr Alex Simwanza has expressed concern over the poor take-up of HIV voluntary counselling and testing (VCT). Simwanza told the local Post newspaper that the testing u
Uganda: ARVs in short supply: Integrated Regional Information Networks - July 3, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 3 July (PLUSNEWS) - A shortage of free anti-AIDS drugs (ARVs) in Uganda is forcing some treatment centres to cut back on their targets, activists said on Monday. Beatrice Were, of the international relief NGO, ActionAid, said no dr
South Africa: Contrasting HIV-positive lives: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 30, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 30 June (PLUSNEWS) - Three South African narratives about a journalist, a judge and a radio disc jockey who shared an intruder in their bodies, the HI virus that causes AIDS, were published last year. Although their lives and perso
South Africa: New strategies needed to meet shortfalls says Global Fund report: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 29, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 29 June (PLUSNEWS) - More than four years since its launch, the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria has made significant gains in combating three of the world s deadliest diseases, but is threatened by funding short
East Africa: Research into effects of circumcision on AIDS continues: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 29, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 29 June (PLUSNEWS) - Researchers have decided against halting research into the effects of male circumcision on HIV transmission in Kenya and Uganda . The United States National Institutes of Health
Southern Africa: HIV/AIDS, poverty leave over 3m short of food: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 29, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG , 29 June (PLUSNEWS) - Despite better harvests in Southern Africa, more than three million people will remain short of food because of HIV/AIDS and poverty, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) warned this week. The announc
Cameroon: Campaign launched to counter 'breast ironing': Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 28, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] YAOUNDE, 28 June (PLUSNEWS) - Activists in Cameroon have begun breaking the silence about breast ironing , widely used to protect young women from being noticed by men. Rarely mentioned, especially to men, the ironing involves massaging the gr
Kyrgyzstan: Youth mark world day against drugs: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 27, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] BISHKEK, 27 Jun 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Hundreds of young people gathered in the northern Kyrgyz town of Kant to mark the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on Monday. We vote for health and Kyrgyzst
Kenya: Risky sexual behaviour persists among Meru men: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 27, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MERU, 27 June (PLUSNEWS) - It s got to be the cliche of the decade, but still appeals to a certain type of man. Wearing a condom is like eating candy with the wrapper still on, said Erasmus Nyaga (not his real name) a 36-year-old matatu (public
Africa: HIV-positive Catholics not receiving enough spiritual care - priest: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 27, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 27 June (PLUSNEWS) - Many HIV-positive Catholics are not receiving adequate pastoral care, despite the Catholic Church being in the forefront of the HIV/AIDS response, according to a Catholic priest. There is still much hesitation
Tanzania: Irish president calls for stronger HIV intervention: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 26, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MONDULI, 26 June (PLUSNEWS) - Visiting Irish president, Mary McAleese, has called for strong intervention to curb the rate of HIV transmission in Tanzania . On a five-day trip to Africa, McAleese visited rural areas in the East African state, wh
Africa: Injecting drug users ignored in HIV/AIDS prevention efforts: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 26, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] DURBAN, 26 June (PLUSNEWS) - With sex the main route of transmission of HIV in sub-Saharan Africa, injecting drug users have largely been ignored in HIV/AIDS interventions. But as an increasing number of African countries play a more significant
South Africa: Children fall through gaps in ARV roll out: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 26, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 26 June (PLUSNEWS) - South Africa s antiretroviral (ARV) roll out is failing its HIV-infected children, a new study has found. An analysis of 16 ARV programmes in five provinces, revealed that the needs of infected children are not
Namibia: Concern as BMS starts handover of HIV/AIDS treatment: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 23, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KATIMA MULILO, 23 June (PLUSNEWS) - Almost three years ago, the privately funded Mapilelo ( Place of Survival ) project began providing people in the impoverished northeastern Caprivi region with anti-AIDS drugs. But with pharmaceutical company
Africa: Regional meeting urges greater cross-border cooperation on HIV: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 23, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KIGALI, 23 June (PLUSNEWS) - The member states of the Great Lakes Initiative on HIV/AIDS (GLIA) have agreed to strengthen their cooperation on HIV issues in order to reduce the effects of the pandemic in this badly affected region. During a week
Zambia: Low testing figures forces govt to launch national testing day: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 22, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LUSAKA, 22 June (PLUSNEWS) - The low uptake of HIV voluntary counselling and testing (VCT) services in Zambia has forced the government to come up with a national testing day to encourage more people to know their status. Director of the Zam
Cote D Ivoire: Involving children in issues raised by HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 22, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] BOUAKE, 22 Jun 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - As co-founder of a shelter for children orphaned by the HIV/AIDS pandemic, Rodrigue Koffi knows that children should never be shut out of the complex problems faced by families living with HIV/AIDS. But Ko
Ethiopia: Poverty limiting treatment options for HIV-positive children: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 21, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] ADDIS ABABA, 21 June (PLUSNEWS) - With an estimated 2.6 million children orphaned by HIV/AIDS over the last decade, Ethiopia faces an uphill battle in its attempts to care for these children. Five-year-old Tesema Asamnew (not his real name) is o
South Africa: New AIDS threat looms: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 19, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] CAPE TOWN, 19 June (PLUSNEWS) - South Africa s Western Cape province has so far maintained the lowest HIV prevalence rate in the battle against AIDS, but this could be changing. According to the 2002 National HIV and Syphilis Antenatal Sero-prev
Swaziland: AIDS slows school building in rural areas: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 19, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MBABANE, 19 Jun 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Deaths of parents from AIDS-related illnesses in rural Swaziland has slowed the rate of school construction, school officials told Prime Minister Themba Dlamini during a visit to the north of the country.
Kenya: Free ARVs a step in the right direction, but much more needed: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 19, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 19 June (PLUSNEWS) - Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki s recent announcement that antiretroviral (ARV) treatment will now be free of charge in public hospitals came as a welcome relief, particularly to the East African nation s HIV-positive
Horn Of Africa: Workshop urges greater cross-border HIV/AIDS cooperation: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 15, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 15 June (PLUSNEWS) - A regional workshop in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi, ended on Wednesday with a call for seven states in east Africa to address HIV/AIDS among mobile cross-border populations in the Horn of Africa. The three-day works
South Africa: Govt should not dictate external AIDS funding - TAC: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 14, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 14 June (PLUSNEWS) - South African AIDS lobby group, Treatment Action Campaign (TAC), says the government should not dictate how donor funds are spent on the pandemic. TAC was responding to Health Minister Manto Tshabalala-Msimang
Africa: AIDS treatment expansion urged: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 14, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 14 June (PLUSNEWS) - Anti-AIDS treatment programmes need to expand dramatically in Africa if we are to reach all those in need, the acting US Global AIDS Coordinator, Dr Mark Dybul, said on Tuesday. We need to expand four- or five-
Malawi: AIDS effort lauded amid complacency concerns: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 14, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 14 June (PLUSNEWS) - Senior UN and British officials lauded Malawi s progress against HIV/AIDS at the end of a three-day mission on Wednesday, but warned against complacency. UNAIDS Executive Director Peter Piot and Suma Chakrabart
Rwanda: Banks discriminate against HIV-positive people: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG - Financial institutions in Rwanda s western district of Karongi are denying loans to people, based on their HIV status, activists have said. According to the local New Times newspaper, an AIDS lobby group, Twizerane, said the actio
Botswana: Racing to keep resistant HIV at bay: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] GABORONE - The sustainability of the national HIV treatment programme in Botswana , and elsewhere in Africa, depends on avoiding widespread drug resistance that could threaten long-term affordability. Patients who miss even five percent of their
South Africa: Civil service AIDS ignorance troubling: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG - Nearly 40 percent of South African civil servants believe HIV/AIDS is curable, a recent study by the local Bureau of Market Research at the University of South Africa and the German aid agency, GTZ, has found. In a report to parli
Tajikistan: HIV/AIDS fuelled by drugs, poverty and ignorance: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 12, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] DUSHANBE, 12 Jun 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - A young man with cheerful eyes nervously fingered a napkin in a cafe when talking to IRIN in the Tajik capital, Dushanbe. The 25-year-old is one of 544 people registered as living with HIV/AIDS in the poo
South Africa: PEPFAR assures sustainability: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 12, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] DURBAN, 12 June (PLUSNEWS) - Hailed as a quantum leap in the global funding response to the HIV/AIDS pandemic, the US President s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), has experienced its fair share of controversy. Many AIDS activists have cr
Kenya: Prison term for wilful HIV infection proposed: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 12, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 12 June (PLUSNEWS) - If a proposed law is passed by Kenya s parliament, people who knowingly infect others with HIV will be jailed for at least seven years, a local newspaper, The Nation, has reported. Anyone convicted of the offen
South Africa: Depression overwhelms AIDS caregivers: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 12, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 12 June (PLUSNEWS) - The South Africa Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) has found that 89 percent of home-based HIV/AIDS caregivers in the northern province of Limpopo and the eastern province of Mpumalanga suffer from depressio
Malawi: UN/UK delegation on AIDS mission: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 12, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 12 June (PLUSNEWS) - Senior UN and British officials will begin a three-day HIV/AIDS mission to Malawi , one of the Southern African countries hard hit by the pandemic, on Monday. Malawi s life expectancy has dropped from about 60
Africa: World at crossroads on AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 9, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 9 June (PLUSNEWS) - A US researcher at Yale University s Centre for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS has come to the conclusion that the world is at a crucial juncture in its fight against HIV/AIDS. In his study, The HIV-AIDS Pan
Africa: Blair pressured on AIDS airline tax: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 9, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 9 June (PLUSNEWS) - UK Prime Minister Tony Blair came under pressure from French President Jacques Chirac on Friday to make a financial commitment to a new anti-AIDS initiative to assist poor nations. According to London s Financia
South Africa: Public servants' HIV programmes lacking: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 9, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 9 June (PLUSNEWS) - Public servants are as much at risk of contracting HIV as the general public, yet are often overlooked in the fight against AIDS, the Public Service Commission said on Thursday. According to its Fifth Annual Sta
South Africa: Orphans suffer when parents leave no will: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 8, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 8 June (PLUSNEWS) - South Africa s child-headed households often struggle because parents who succumbed to AIDS-related illnesses had not drawn up a will, a legal expert said on Wednesday. Many of the 35,000 child-headed households
Africa: Politics still hamper anti-AIDS progress - activists: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 8, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 8 June (PLUSNEWS) - The Geneva-based International AIDS Society (IAS), said on Wednesday that politics still blocked the implementation of much needed anti-AIDS programmes, even 25 years into the pandemic. IAS executive director Cr
South Africa: Activists welcome Gauteng AIDS budget: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 7, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 7 June (PLUSNEWS) - The South African AIDS lobby group, Treatment Action Campaign (TAC), on Tuesday welcomed an increased allocation in the Gauteng province s health department budget to combat the pandemic. Provincial health minis
South Africa: HIV-positive prisoners still dying: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 7, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 7 June (PLUSNEWS) - The AIDS support group at Westville Prison in South Africa s east-coast city of Durban said on Tuesday that the pandemic was still wreaking havoc among inmates. Sifiso Ndlovu, the group s spokesman, told the cit
South Africa: Govt blasted for AIDS approach: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 7, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 7 June (PLUSNEWS) - South African opposition parties took the government to task in parliament on Tuesday over various issues related to its anti-AIDS approach. Concerns included Health Minister Manto Tshabalala-Msimang s relations
Egypt-Syria: Governments criticised for approach against HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 7, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] CAIRO/DAMASCUS, 7 Jun 2006 (IRIN) - The US-based Human Rights Watch (HRW) on 1 June criticised Egypt and Syria for not being explicit enough in the fight against HIV/AIDS and for threatening to derail last week s UN
South Africa: Gauteng AIDS budget almost doubled: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 6, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 6 June (PLUSNEWS) - The health department of South Africa s Gauteng province has allocated US$814,000 to HIV/AIDS for the 2006/07 financial year, which started in March. According to the South African Broadcasting Corporation, this
Uganda: Twin TB/HIV treatment initiative launched: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 6, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 6 June (PLUSNEWS) - Uganda launched a new programme in the capital, Kampala, on Monday to simultaneously treat and educate people about the twin burdens of tuberculosis (TB) and HIV/AIDS. Ministry of health officials estimated th
Ethiopia: Women leading with HIV rates: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 6, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 6 June (PLUSNEWS) - Ethiopian women are now more affected by HIV/AIDS than the general population, ministry of health officials have said. In its national surveillance report for 2006, the ministry recorded an HIV prevalence rate o
India: UN report spotlights HIV/AIDS rates in children: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 6, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NEW DELHI, 6 June (PLUSNEWS) - The total number of HIV/AIDS cases in India has reached an estimated 5.7 million, surpassing South Africa s 5.5 million cases, the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS ( UNAIDS
Africa: Global HIV testing day proposed: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 5, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 5 June (PLUSNEWS) - US First Lady Laura Bush has recommended that a global annual HIV testing campaign be adopted by governments. Bush told the closing session of the UN High Level Meeting on AIDS in New York on Friday that the US
South Africa: Abstinence urged ahead of youth day: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 5, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 5 June (PLUSNEWS) - South Africa s Zulu monarch, King Goodwill Zwelithini, on Saturday called on young people to rise up against HIV/AIDS in the same way that the youth of 1976 did against apartheid. According to the South African
South Africa: Mixed reaction to UN declaration on AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 5, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 5 June (PLUSNEWS) - There has been mixed reaction in South Africa to a new declaration adopted during the three-day UN High Level Meeting on the pandemic which ended on Friday. Although the revised declaration promised, among other
Botswana: Care for caregivers at new centre: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 5, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] GABORONE, 5 June (PLUSNEWS) - A new centre in Botswana is piloting some innovate strategies to address the emotional and medical needs of HIV/AIDS healthcare providers. The Tshedisa Institute in the capital, Gaborone, is the brainchild of severa
Southern Africa: Circumcision popularity cuts through region: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 5, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 5 June (PLUSNEWS) - Five Southern African countries are encouraging more men to be circumcised after a study showed the procedure can help reduce HIV infection. The appeal came after a three-year study involving 3,274 South African
Uganda: Criminal probe recommended in AIDS fund scam: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 2, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KAMPALA, 2 June (PLUSNEWS) - A judicial probe into the mismanagement of grants to Uganda from the Geneva-based Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria has recommended that former health ministers and other managers of the funds be in
Africa: UNGASS draft declaration far short of civil society expectations: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 2, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NEW YORK, 2 June (PLUSNEWS) - The UN declaration reviewing global progress on HIV/AIDS released on Friday has failed to win the endorsement of civil society groups, disappointed by the lack of ambition in the text. Late on Thursday, AIDS activis
Africa: Women's rights needed against AIDS - UNFPA: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 2, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 2 June (PLUSNEWS) - The only way to reverse the feminisation of HIV/AIDS is to allow women greater control of their bodies and their lives, the UN Population Fund (UNFPA) said on Thursday. Ensuring the full participation of women i
Africa: UN meeting deadlock over declaration: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 2, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 2 June (PLUSNEWS) - A UN High Level Meeting on HIV and AIDS in New York is struggling to reach consensus over a final declaration of commitment on how to tackle the pandemic before the conference ends on Friday. Progress had been m
Africa: Lewis irked by AIDS funding shortfall: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 2, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 2 June (PLUSNEWS) - Experts say global HIV/AIDS programmes are facing massive financing shortfalls in the coming years, as countries balk at setting new funding targets at a UN High Level Meeting on the pandemic in New York this we
Kenya: ARVs now free in public hospitals: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 2, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 2 June (PLUSNEWS) - HIV-positive Kenyans will no longer have to pay for life-prolonging antiretroviral (ARV) treatment at public hospitals, President Mwai Kibaki has announced. Speaking at celebrations to mark Kenya s 43rd Madaraka (sel
Africa: Africa opts for stronger Abuja agreement over UN deal: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 2, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NEW YORK, 2 June (PLUSNEWS) - African delegations in New York on Friday said an agreement they reached last month in Nigeria would remain the cornerstone of the continent s struggle against the pandemic, rather than a new UN declaration on HIV/A
Tanzania: Church still opposes condoms, sex education: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 1, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] DAR ES SALAAM, 1 June (PLUSNEWS) - Tanzania s Anglican Church is still vehemently opposed to condom use, despite its ambitious HIV/AIDS prevention campaign, and has called for a total ban on condom advertising to protect children from early expo
South Africa: HIV positive woman makes history at UNGASS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 1, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 1 June (PLUSNEWS) - South Africa s Khensani Mavasa on Wednesday became the first HIV-positive person to address a special session of the UN General Assembly. In a speech during the opening session of the UN High Level Meeting on HI
Africa: More AIDS focus on marginalised groups needed - Annan: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 1, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 1 June (PLUSNEWS) - UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan on Wednesday called for a greater focus on marginalised groups in the global battle against HIV/AIDS. Addressing the opening session of a UN High Level Meeting on HIV and AIDS in
Africa: Women still hardest-hit by AIDS - Piot: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 1, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 1 June (PLUSNEWS) - Women in Africa are still hardest-hit by HIV/AIDS, despite some headway being made in lowering the numbers in parts of the continent, UNAIDS Executive Director Peter Piot said on Wednesday. I believe that w
Africa: Huge gap in healthcare staff highlighted at UNGASS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - June 1, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 1 June (PLUSNEWS) - Healthcare shortages in developing nations have not been properly addressed in the draft political declaration of the 2006 High-Level Meeting on HIV and AIDS, experts charged on Wednesday. According to Internati
East Africa: Significant progress as HIV prevalence declines - UNAIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 31, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 31 May (PLUSNEWS) - Although sub-Saharan Africa is the region worst affected by HIV/AIDS, a new report by UNAIDS has noted significant declines in prevalence in Kenya , Tanzania and
Africa: Special focus on women during UN Meeting: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 31, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 31 May (PLUSNEWS) - A UN High Level Meeting on HIV and AIDS in New York this week will be taking stock of global efforts against HIV/AIDS, with a special focus on women. Although infection rates have been falling in parts of Africa
Africa: G8 fails to set up AIDS working group - trade unions: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 31, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 31 May (PLUSNEWS) - Trade unions attending the UN High Level Meeting on HIV and AIDS are seeking support for the creation of a permanent working group on HIV/AIDS by the Group of Eight (G8) industrialised nations. During its annual
Africa: Activists demand action on G8 AIDS pledge: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 31, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 31 May (PLUSNEWS) - Promises by the Group of Eight (G8) industrialised nations to assist in providing universal access to HIV/AIDS treatment will be broken unless firm commitments are made at this week s UN High Level Meeting on HI
South Africa: Health Minister to address UNGASS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 31, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 31 May (PLUSNEWS) - South African health Minister Manto Tshabalala-Msimang is among scores of government officials converging on New York for the UN General Assembly Special Session (UNGASS) on AIDS on Wednesday. According to the S
Africa: Panos urges greater commitment at UN meeting: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 31, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 31 May (PLUSNEWS) - The Panos Institute, a London-based thinktank, is calling for strengthened efforts by world leaders as the UN High Level Meeting on HIV and AIDS kicks off in New York. Although progress against AIDS had been mad
Namibia: Curbing HIV/AIDS along a transport corridor: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 30, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KATIMA MULILO, 30 May 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - That [a condom] is a traveller s companion, just like the passport, said customs officer Joseph Matroos, pointing to a dispenser at the Ngoma border post in the Caprivi region on Namibia s northeaste
Kyrgyzstan: World Bank and government pledge to battle HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 30, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] BISHKEK, 30 May 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - The World Bank s regional project to control HIV/AIDS in Central Asia and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Kyrgyzstan on Tuesday signed an agreement to fight the epidemic in the Central A
Southern Africa: UNAIDS highlights poor progress in containing HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 30, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 30 May (PLUSNEWS) - The HIV/AIDS pandemic may be slowing down globally, but in Southern Africa the outlook is still bleak, says a new UNAIDS report. One-third of the worldwide 2005 AIDS death-toll occurred in Southern Africa and ap
Uganda: Programme to combat spread of tuberculosis launched: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 30, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KAMPALA, 30 May 2006 (IRIN) - Uganda s health ministry has launched a programme to stem the spread of tuberculosis, a disease that afflicts at least 40,000 people in the East African country every year. The new project, introduced on Monday, en
Namibia: Youth having sex earlier, but with fewer partners: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 30, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] WINDHOEK, 30 May (PLUSNEWS) - Namibians are having their first sexual encounter at an earlier age, but more people have reduced their number of sexual partners to avoid the risk of HIV infection, a new survey reveals. Our research showed that yo
Tanzania: Eliminating stigma in conservative Zanzibar crucial to HIV/AIDS fight: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 29, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] STONE TOWN, 29 May (PLUSNEWS) - AIDS activists on the semi-autonomous island of Zanzibar are making every effort to reduce discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDS, a Herculean task in a society where talking about sex is still taboo.
South Africa: Rise in AIDS public health cost expected: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 29, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 29 May (PLUSNEWS) - Researchers are warning that South Africa should prepare for a sharp rise in the cost of public health services in the next few years, due to HIV/AIDS. According to the Health Economics and HIV/AIDS Research Div
South Africa: Delegates ready for UNGASS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 29, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 29 May (PLUSNEWS) - South African AIDS activists will be attending the UN General Assembly Special Session (UNGASS) on AIDS in New York this week, where progress in countering the pandemic since 2001 will be reviewed. More than 180
Africa: HIV seen like never before: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 29, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 29 May (PLUSNEWS) - For the first time, US scientists have been able take a closeup, three-dimensional look at spike proteins on the surface of the HI virus, which could help speed up the search for a vaccine. Known as gp120 and gp
Africa: More action urged for HIV-positive kids: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 29, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 29 May (PLUSNEWS) - The Global Movement for Children (GMC), an NGO, is urging the international community to do more about the treatment and care of HIV-positive children. According to a joint report by GMC partners, which include
Yemen: Teenagers trained to help halt spread of HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 28, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] ADEN, 28 May 2006 (IRIN) - Students learned skills to enable them to raise awareness on preventing the spread of HIV/AIDS among young people at a workshop that concluded on Sunday. A total of 34 students were selected from five neighbourhoods i
South Africa: 'In the Continuum' gives HIV/AIDS a human face: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 26, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 26 May (PLUSNEWS) - In the Continuum tells the stories of Abigail (Danai Gurira), a middle-class Zimbabwean woman who is a wife and mother working as a newsreader for Zimbabwe s government-owned television station, and Nia (Nikkole
Uganda: UNGASS - good HIV/AIDS information but too little prevention: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 26, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KAMPALA, 26 May (PLUSNEWS) - Uganda has failed to meet two of the three HIV prevention targets set by the United Nations General Assembly Special Session (UNGASS) on HIV in 2001, according to a UN World Health Organizat
South Africa: HIV-positive Muslims take comfort in their faith: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 26, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 26 May (PLUSNEWS) - After becoming sick with tuberculosis Majawa called the Islamic Careline, a confidential counselling service, and was put in touch with the Muslim AIDS Programme (MAP), a national organisation. MAP offered her s
Mozambique: Exploitation and abuse awaits Zimbabwe's migrant children: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 25, 2006; MAPUTO - Save the Children-UK (SCF-UK) in Mozambique has raised the alarm over increasing numbers of Zimbabwean children illegally entering Mozambique to escape poverty at home. Many are AIDS orphans or unaccompanied, hoping to find a better life in better-off neighbouring Mozambique. Instead they can fall prey to expl
South Africa: Child Mortality rising: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 25, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG - South Africa is one of only seven countries on the continent where child deaths are rising, reversing a steady drop that began in the mid-1990s, according to health experts attending a two-day conference on child survival in Cape
Ethiopia: Mothers urged to join in parent-to-child HIV prevention: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 25, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] ADDIS ABABA - The Ethiopian health ministry is urging mothers to join the fight to reduce the number of children born with the HI virus, estimating that just six percent of women have their babies in a health facility. According to government st
Kenya: Progress on HIV parent-to-baby transmission, but UNGASS target still elusive: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 24, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 24 May (PLUSNEWS) - The comprehensive HIV/AIDS care clinic at Kenya s Machakos District Hospital buzzes with activity as nurses call out the names of the tens of women waiting - proof, according to the hospital s staff, that their effor
Uganda: Politicians implicated in Global Fund scam excluded from gov't: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 24, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KAMPALA, 24 May (PLUSNEWS) - Uganda s former health minister and his two deputies - all of whom are accused of mismanagement of foreign grants to fight HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria - have been left out of President Yoweri Museveni s new ca
Cote d'Ivoire: Civil War All But Wiped Out Health Care, HIV/AIDS Facilities: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 23, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] ABIDJAN, 23 May 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Cote d Ivoire s civil war all but wiped out the health sector in the rebel-held north, dramatically reducing the number of available doctors and significantly harming HIV/AIDS care and prevention, a new st
Djibouti: The weight of silence - overcoming the stigma of HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 23, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] DJIBOUTIVILLE, 23 May (PLUSNEWS) - In the deeply conservative Muslim society of the Red Sea state of Djibouti , HIV-positive people wear their status as a cloak of shame. Being HIV positive is like having death glued to your skin - it s difficul
Southern Africa: Expecting poor marks for AIDS prevention on the UNGASS report card: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 23, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 23 May (PLUSNEWS) - African countries have failed to meet prevention targets agreed upon in 2001 at the United Nations General Assembly s Special Session on HIV/AIDS (UNGASS), according to a statement issued recently by over 80 rep
Namibia: Vulnerable children recieve food and an allowance: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 22, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] RUNDU, 22 May 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Registering and feeding over 100,000 orphans and vulnerable children in the rural areas of northern Namibia is underway, bringing much needed relief to many of these often-neglected youngsters. They [th
Tanzania: Walk to raise US $100,000 to fight child hunger: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 22, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] ARUSHA, 22 May 2006 (IRIN) - As part of charity walks organised worldwide by the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) on Sunday, proceeds from the five-kilometre one held on the slopes of Africa s highest mountain, Kilimanjaro, hoped to ra
Uganda: Men's union encourages men to be more open about HIV: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 22, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KAMPALA, 22 May (PLUSNEWS) - A pioneering support group in Uganda is urging men living with HIV/AIDS to own up to their condition rather than putting themselves and their families at risk by staying in denial. The Positive Men s Union (POMU)
Uganda: UN urged to prioritise AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 22, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 22 May (PLUSNEWS) - UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan was urged on Sunday to place HIV/AIDS in Uganda high on the agenda of the UN General Assembly Special Session on the pandemic, scheduled for June in New York. According to the
Kenya: Sharing knowledge key to improving HIV/AIDS management: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 22, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 22 May (PLUSNEWS) - In a bid to document and scale-up best practices in HIV/AIDS, the African Medical and Research Foundation (AMREF) in Kenya has carried out 16 case studies of HIV/AIDS programmes in four African countries over the pas
Uzbekistan: Integrated front line approach to tackling HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 19, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] TASHKENT, 19 May 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - On a street corner in the Uzbek capital, Tashkent, an inauspicious doorway marks a new approach to dealing with the growing threat of HIV/AIDS in the country. In an effort to combat stigma and encourage t
Africa: Kenya/Brazil AIDS assault planned: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 19, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 19 May (PLUSNEWS) - Brazil and Kenya announced plans earlier this week to pressure the upcoming World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland , for more funds to combat neglected diseases, including HIV/AIDS, tub
Africa: Deportation ruling angers AIDS activists: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 19, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 19 May (PLUSNEWS) - AIDS activists are concerned that hundreds of HIV-positive people could be sent back to Africa after a decision by Britain s Home Office allowing their deportation. Ruth Bundey, a British solicitor representing
South Africa: Highlight AIDS vulnerability aspects - Govt: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 19, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 19 May (PLUSNEWS) - South African Health Minister Manto Tshabalala-Msimang has urged poor nations to bring problems that leave them more vulnerable to HIV/AIDS than developed countries to the attention of the UN. At the launch of t
Tanzania: Sexual abuse, poverty puts disabled at high HIV risk: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 18, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] DAR ES SALAAM, 18 May (PLUSNEWS) - AIDS activists in Tanzania are becoming increasingly concerned about rising HIV/AIDS among mentally and physically disabled people, a group generally perceived to be at lower risk of contracting the virus.
South Africa: The biggest ARV programme in the world?: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 18, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 18 May (PLUSNEWS) - South Africa has the world s largest antiretroviral (ARV) treatment programme for HIV-positive people, government officials announced on Wednesday. According to government spokesman Joel Netshitenzhe, by the end
Central Asia: Landmark HIV/AIDS conference ends with new regional commitments: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 17, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MOSCOW, 17 May 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - The first HIV/AIDS conference on Russia , eastern Europe and Central Asia held in Moscow concluded on Wednesday with a call for greater leadership and commitment in mitigating the pandemic s spread in the r
Southern Africa: Little done to counter rising abuse of schoolgirls: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 17, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 17 May 2006 (IRIN) - Violence against girls in Southern African schools is steadily rising, but not enough is being done to prevent and censure abuse in educational institutions, according to delegates at a regional conference in
India: Human trafficking in the northeast fuelling HIV/AIDS - report: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 17, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KOKRAJHAR, 17 May 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Images of guns, drugs and rebels have long defined India s troubled northeast. Now, a study across eight states in this resource-rich, infrastructure-poor, conflict-scarred region seeks to highlight a ne
Congo: Decay, disease, violence stalk convicts: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 17, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] BRAZZAVILLE, 17 May 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Inside the crumbling, mildewed walls of Brazzaville s prison in the capital of the Republic of Congo (ROC), up to 12 men share cells designed to hold four inmates. The cells have neither running water,
Kenya: Music industry gets with the HIV/AIDS programme: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 17, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 17 May (PLUSNEWS) - Kenya s musicians are stepping up to the mike and using their talent and creative imagination to spread vital HIV/AIDS information among young people. It s good to sing about beautiful women and guys, but it is impor
Global: Virginity pledges not always kept - study: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 17, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 17 May (PLUSNEWS) - A survey of American teenagers who publicly pledged to remain virgins until marriage has found that more than half of them broke their vow within a year. The study, published in the June issue of the American Jo
Nepal: HIV hospice for gay and transgender men offers hope: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 16, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KATHMANDU, 16 May 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - There s no signboard outside the simple white-washed building at the end of the road - and neighbours have little idea of who its occupants are. But in this traditional Hindu society, where open discussi
Kenya: Microbicide trials launched: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 16, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 16 May (PLUSNEWS) - Researchers have started trials of a vaginal gel that could help women protect themselves against HIV in situations where they cannot negotiate condom use. Applied before sex, vaginal microbicides are substances
South Africa: The HIV testing debate: voluntary or opt-out?: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 16, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 16 May (PLUSNEWS) - Supreme Court of Appeals Judge and HIV positive activist Edwin Cameron has added his voice to an international debate that has been mounting in recent months surrounding HIV testing. Despite high levels of knowl
Central Asia: UNAIDS launches key regional conference: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 15, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] ANKARA, 15 May 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - The first HIV/AIDS conference on Russia , eastern European and Central Asia kicked off in Moscow on Monday, bringing together 1,500 participants from the region to discuss the epidemic. The conference, Fac
Zimbabwe: Fake ARVs on sale: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 15, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 15 May (PLUSNEWS) - HIV/AIDS organisations in Zimbabwe s second city of Bulawayo have warned people to be on the lookout for individuals selling fake antiretroviral (ARV) drugs. Doctors have been shown ARV capsules filled with maiz
Africa: World's MPs told to put women and children first: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 12, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 12 May 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Presenters at the 114th Inter Parliamentary Union (IPU) conference, which ended in Nairobi, Kenya , on Friday, used the meeting as a platform to advocate on behalf of Africa s women and children. Putti
Libya: Doctor/nurse AIDS case goes into overtime: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 12, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 12 May (PLUSNEWS) - A new trial of five Bulgarian nurses and a Palestinian doctor accused of infecting more than 400 Libyan children with HIV began in Tripoli on Thursday with a judge refusing bail. The nurses and doctor have been
South Africa: Eastern Cape youth ignorant of AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 12, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 12 May (PLUSNEWS) - The South African AIDS lobby group, Treatment Action Campaign (TAC), has expressed concern over the poor level of HIV/AIDS knowledge among pupils in the rural Eastern Cape province. Portia Ngcaba, coordinator of
Iraq: Aids patients demand better treatment, stipends: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 11, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] BAGHDAD, 11 May 2006 (IRIN) - Iraqis living with HIV/AIDS and their families are demanding improved treatment facilities and larger monetary stipends. What we re currently receiving from the government isn t enough to support our families, sai
South Africa: Lewis slams confusing Zuma AIDS remarks: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 11, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 11 May (PLUSNEWS) - Stephen Lewis, the UN special envoy for HIV/AIDS in Africa, on Wednesday accused South African ex-deputy president Jacob Zuma of setting back the fight against the pandemic with his recent remarks on HIV prevent
Southern Africa: Namibia joins refugee ARV rollout campaign: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 11, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 11 May (PLUSNEWS) - Namibia has joined South Africa and Zambia on the list of countries now guaranteeing refugees access to antiretroviral (ARV) treatment, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees said on Wednesday.
Africa: Govts warned on AIDS cash mismanagement: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 11, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 11 May (PLUSNEWS) - The Global Fund against AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria is to reject requests for money by countries suspected of financial mismanagement, UN special envoy for HIV/AIDS in Africa Stephen Lewis said on Wednesday.
South Africa: ARVs on cards for inmates: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 11, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 11 May (PLUSNEWS) - A recent hunger strike by HIV-positive inmates for anti-AIDS drugs at South Africa s Westville Prison, in the east coast city of Durban, has had the desired effect, prison authorities admitted on Wednesday.
Zimbabwe: HIV-positive people floundering as economy sinks: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 10, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] HARARE, 10 May 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Newspapers headlines in Zimbabwe s capital, Harare, announced last week that anti-AIDS drugs were in perilously short supply, endangering the lives of HIV-positive people. The government has attributed the
South Africa: loveLife welcomes Zuma apology: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 10 May (PLUSNEWS) - The South African youth HIV/AIDS campaign, Lovelife, on Wednesday welcomed former deputy president Jacob Zuma s apology for having unprotected sex with an HIV-positive woman. Tokyo Sexwale, chairman of loveLife
Liberia: President secures free HIV test kits: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 10 May (PLUSNEWS) - Liberian President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf accepted anti-AIDS assistance by the global pharmaceutical giant, Abbott Laboratories , during a visit to Chicago, US, this week. Abbott will donate thousands of HIV
Swaziland: The vital but underestimated role of AIDS caregivers: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 9, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MBABANE, 9 May 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Swaziland s home-based caregivers are too few and too poorly paid to cope with the growing numbers of bedridden AIDS patients, but in the absence of adequate health facilities and trained professionals, the
Tanzania: Education headed for crisis as AIDS strikes teachers: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 9, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] DAR ES SALAAM, 9 May (PLUSNEWS) - Education in Tanzania faces a looming crisis after government recently revealed that the sector is in danger of losing more than 27,000 teachers to HIV/AIDS by 2020. The impact of HIV/AIDS on education, just
Africa: Fresh promises to bolster the HIV/AIDS fight: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 9, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 9 May (PLUSNEWS) - African heads of state have renewed their commitment to tackling HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria by trying to achieve universal access to care and treatment on the continent by 2010. The promises were made on
South Africa: Another TAC/Rath court case looms: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 9, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 9 May (PLUSNEWS) - The South African AIDS lobby group, Treatment Action Campaign (TAC), will be back in court in three to four months time for another round with German vitamin entrepreneur Matthias Rath. This time the ministry of
South Africa: Zuma apologises for unsafe sex: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 9, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 9 May (PLUSNEWS) - Former South African deputy president Jacob Zuma told the nation on Tuesday he was sorry he had engaged in unprotected sex with an HIV-positive woman. Zuma made the apology a day after he was acquitted of sexuall
Sierra Leone: Armed forces break new ground in battle against HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 8, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] FREETOWN, 8 May 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Soldiers whooped out a cheer as a trio of singers kitted out in combat fatigues crooned Go for your VCCT test, and a back-up group dressed in purple satin broke into a routine. A pioneering information cam
Africa: Abuja AIDS Summit - promises, promises?: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 8, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] ABUJA, 8 May (PLUSNEWS) - African leaders meeting last week at a special summit on HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria, in the Nigerian capital, Abuja, threw down a challenge to their governments by setting bold new targets to be achieved by 2010
Africa: More work needed despite AIDS decline: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 8, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 8 May (PLUSNEWS) - Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo says his country has consistently recorded a decline in the HIV prevalence rate over the last five years. Obasanjo noted in a statement on Friday that the national prevalence
Africa: AIDS success pivotal to MDGs: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 8, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 8 May (PLUSNEWS) - UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan has warned that unless HIV/AIDS is beaten, Africa could miss the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) adopted in 2000. The MDGs seek to halve a host of socioeconomic ills, such as h
Africa: Vatican could revise ban on condoms: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 8, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 8 May (PLUSNEWS) - The Vatican has announced that it is considering the release of a paper on condom use to curb the spread of HIV/AIDS, renewing the debate around the Catholic Church s ban using them. At a recent HIV prevention me
Southern Africa: AIDS voices least heard - study: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 7, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 7 May (PLUSNEWS) - The voices and gender dimensions of HIV/AIDS in Southern Africa are not well reflected by the media, according to a study released on Wednesday, World Press Freedom Day. For a month during 2005, the HIV and AIDS
Southern Africa: More children going hungry: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 5, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 5 May 2006 (IRIN) - According to a report released this week by Unicef, the UN children s agency, HIV/AIDS is contributing to continuing high rates of malnutrition among children in Southern African countries. Rather than making p
Africa: African leaders prepare AIDS battle plan: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 4, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] ABUJA, 4 May (PLUSNEWS) - African heads of state meeting in the Nigerian capital Abuja on Thursday were expected to draw up a joint plan to tackle the AIDS pandemic, tuberculosis and malaria - the continent s three biggest killers. We must take
Kenya: New AIDS treatment plan launched: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 4, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 4 May (PLUSNEWS) - The Kenyan Medical Association and Family Health International (FHI), an anti-AIDS charity, have launched an HIV/AIDS treatment project to complement the government s programme. FHI country director John McWillia
Lesotho: One month to universal HIV testing plan: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 3, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG - In just under a month, teams of healthcare workers will start a door-to-door campaign across Lesotho , offering everyone over the age of 12 an on-the-spot HIV test. The US$12.5 million Know Your Status initiative is a collaborat
Zimbabwe: Economic crisis hampers ARV rollout: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 3, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG - Foreign currency shortages are hobbling Zimbabwe s efforts to treat thousands of HIV-positive people in urgent need of antiretroviral (ARV) drugs. Acting director of the National Pharmaceutical Company, Charles Mwaramba, said his
Nigeria: Govt reaffirms AIDS commitment: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 3, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG - Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo on Tuesday underscored his commitment to tackling infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS. The president also stressed the importance of external assistance in his country s fight against the thre
Africa: Piot motivates AIDS summit delegates: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 3, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG - UNAIDS Executive Director, Peter Piot, on Wednesday called for bolder action by African leaders against HIV/AIDS. Speaking at the on-going Special Summit of African Union on HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (ATM) in Nigeria s ca
South Africa: Positive immigrants: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 2, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 2 May 2006 (IRIN) - Living with HIV in South Africa presents plenty of challenges: those most affected are often the poorest and lack access to jobs, housing and proper sanitation; the disease still carries a strong stigma and man
Zimbabwe: More AIDS action urged during Abuja summit: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 2, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 2 May (PLUSNEWS) - Zimbabwean authorities at the Abuja Summit on Universal Access to HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis (TB) and Malaria Treatment being held this week in Abuja, the Nigerian capital, say there is a need for more action and les
Zimbabwe: UNICEF pushes for broader AIDS care: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 2, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 2 May (PLUSNEWS) - The UN Children s Fund (Unicef) Goodwill Ambassador, Angelique Kidjo, has called for greater attention to be focused on children living with HIV/AIDS in Zimbabwe . Kidjo made the statement during a recent visit t
South Africa: May Day HIV/AIDS focus: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 2, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 2 May (PLUSNEWS) - South African trade unions used May Day celebrations on Monday to call for greater action against HIV/AIDS. Addressing workers and union members in the Western Cape Province town of Swellendam, the South African
Ethiopia: Kiddie AIDS clinic planned for Addis: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 2, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 2 May (PLUSNEWS) - HIV-positive children in Ethiopia s capital, Addis Ababa, are to benefit from a new initiative by former US President Bill Clinton and the Christian Children s Fund of Canada (CCFC). According to a joint
Jordan: National media to promote AIDS awareness: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 1, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] AMMAN, 1 May 2006 (IRIN) - Local journalists have been asked to participate with both government and non-government organizations in a national media campaign aimed at raising awareness about HIV/AIDS, according to sources in the health sector.
Myanmar: Boosting condom use through clever marketing: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 1, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] RANGOON, 1 May (PLUSNEWS) - In military-ruled Myanmar , condoms were virtually invisible and rarely used just a decade ago. But Population Services International (PSI), a US-based NGO, has managed to break through the social resistance to using,
South Africa: Small clinic at centre of debate over traditional medicine: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 1, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] DURBAN, 1 May (PLUSNEWS) - Over the past few months, hundreds of people have been streaming into an office building in Pinetown, on the outskirts of South Africa s east coast city of Durban, looking for the clinic that sells ubhejane - a herbal
Zambia: HIV prevention campaign supports circumcision: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 1, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 1 May (PLUSNEWS) - Zambian authorities at the weekend acknowledged male circumcision as a preventative measure in the fight against HIV/AIDS. The decision was attributed to recent research indicating circumcision appeared to cut HI
Nigeria: Global Fund suspends AIDS grant: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 1, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 1 May (PLUSNEWS) - The Global Fund against AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria at the weekend halted US $50 million in grants to Nigeria , citing the country s failure to meet performance targets. Fund spokesman Jon Liden said the g
Nigeria: African leaders to meet on AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - May 1, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 1 May (PLUSNEWS) - African heads of state are to meet in Nigeria s capital, Abuja, on Tuesday to discuss the way forward in HIV/AIDS management and control. The four-day gathering is a review of the Declarations and Frameworks for
Syria: Private media breaks taboos, but restrictions remain: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 30, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] DAMASCUS, 30 Apr 2006 (IRIN) - The chief of Syria s first private television channel has a simple formula for the effect his ground-breaking series has had on the country s tightly-controlled media. Stagnant water needs a stone to move it, sai
Kenya: Global Fund okays AIDS grant: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 28, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 28 April (PLUSNEWS) - The Global Fund on AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria has agreed to new funding for Kenya despite the country s delay in submitting an audit for a first tranche. Spokeswoman for the Fund, Rosie Vanek, said her org
Africa: MSF pressures Abbott on key ARV: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 28, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 28 April (PLUSNEWS) - US drug giant Abbott Laboratories was on Thursday accused of withholding new heat-resistant tablet versions of its anti-AIDS drug Kaletra in developing countries.
Africa: Concern as Global Fund weighs future: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 28, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 28 April (PLUSNEWS) - AIDS activists were on Thursday concerned about the ability of the Global Fund on AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria to expand its reach over coming years. This emerged as the Fund s governing board convened a two
Lesotho: Lack of healthcare workers a drain on new HIV/AIDS plan: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 27, 2006; MASERU - As the Lesotho government prepares to launch a Know your HIV status campaign, a shortage of qualified healthcare workers threatens to derail plans to increase access to AIDS treatment in the mountain kingdom. According a nurse [who wanted to remain anonymous] at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, the countries main ref
Tanzania: Law reforms to take account of HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 27, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] DAR ES SALAAM - The government of Tanzania is to overhaul its legal framework to take account of the challenges of HIV/AIDS. There is need for a comprehensive law on HIV/AIDS issues - a legal framework that ... takes into account the interests o
South Africa: Indian first-line ARV registered: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 26, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG - Indian generic drug firm Cipla Medpro, this week announced one of its key antiretroviral (ARV) drugs had been registered in South Africa . The drug Triomune - to be supplied through the local company, Enaleni Pharmaceuticals - was
Kenya: DFID anti-AIDS boost announced: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 26, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG - Some 60,000 HIV-positive Kenyans are to benefit from a new treatment initiative by Britain s Department for International Development (DFID). DFID chairman Simon Bland on Wednesday pledged more than US $9 million towards the procu
Africa: Finding effective microbicide just the first step: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 25, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] CAPE TOWN - An effective microbicide could be ready in six years if current trials are successful, but it would take longer before hitting the shelves in developing countries, delegates attending an international microbicides conference heard on
Uganda: Iranian anti-AIDS drug banned: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 25, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 25 April (PLUSNEWS) - Ugandan authorities have banned the use of a popular anti-AIDS herb remedy known as Khomeini , after tests found it provided no cure. The government s directive came months after parliament had been informed t
Africa: Concern over HIV/TB coinfection drug: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 25, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 25 April (PLUSNEWS) - Experts are concerned that Isoniazid, an antibiotic commonly used to treat tuberculosis (TB) in HIV-positive people, might also result in multi-drug resistant TB (MDR-TB). Ted Cohen of the Harvard School of Pu
Africa: Vatican paper on condom use planned: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 25, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 25 April (PLUSNEWS) - A report on condom use for HIV-positive people is being prepared by the Roman Catholic Church at Pope Benedict XVI s request, the Vatican s health ministry said on Monday. Ministry director, Cardinal Javier Lo
Uganda: Integrating traditional medicine in the fight against HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 24, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KAMPALA, 24 April (PLUSNEWS) - Musawo Musa Takomalirawo, a traditional Ugandan healer, never had any formal schooling, but for the past 40 years he has treated patients for malaria, chronic diarrhoea and nightmares. I would treat patients for HI
Africa: Frustration over pace of microbicide development: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 24, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] CAPE TOWN, 24 April (PLUSNEWS) - Progress in developing an effective anti-HIV microbicide was far too slow, delegates attending the international microbicide conference in Cape Town, South Africa , heard this week. Sunday s colourful opening
Africa: Catholics agree to conditional condom use: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 24, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 24 April (PLUSNEWS) - One of the Roman Catholic Church s most prominent cardinals is supporting the use of condoms for HIV prevention among married couples. This was despite the Church having always stood firm in its objection to t
South Africa: Circumcision, fidelity touted against AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 24, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 24 April (PLUSNEWS) - Male circumcision and faithfulness should take precedence over condoms or abstinence in stemming HIV/AIDS in Africa, experts said in Johannesburg, South Africa last week. According to Daniel Halperin, a US
South Africa: Effective microbicide promised in four years: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 24, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 24 April (PLUSNEWS) - An effective microbicide to protect women against HIV may be available by 2010 if current trials prove successful, experts said on Sunday at the start of a four-day forum in Cape Town, South Afri
Uzbekistan: Interview with Aziz Khudoberdiev, Joint UN Programme on HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 21, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] TASHKENT, 21 Apr 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - The total number of registered HIV/AIDS cases in Uzbekistan is the highest recorded in Central Asia, according to the UN s Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) report for Uzbekistan published on 11 April.
Seychelles: First AIDS forum warns against complacency: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 21, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 21 April (PLUSNEWS) - Health officials attending the first AIDS forum in Seychelles have warned that low HIV prevalence figures should not lead to complacency. Colette Servina, head of the HIV/AIDS Control Programme, said children
South Africa: Anti-HIV microbicide experts to meet: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 21, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 21 April (PLUSNEWS) - Local and international experts will gather at a four-day forum in Cape Town, South Africa , to discuss the development of a microbicide to protect women against the HI virus. Women are more susceptible to
South Africa: KZN teachers feel AIDS impact: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 21, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 21 April (PLUSNEWS) - The teaching fraternity in South Africa s KwaZulu-Natal province has expressed concern over the impact of HIV/AIDS on the profession. At a national conference in Empangeni, on the northern coast, to discuss wa
Liberia: HIV/ AIDS infection rate rising rapidly: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 20, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MONROVIA, 20 Apr 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Liberia s new peacetime government is alarmed at the rapidly rising rate of HIV and AIDS infections, which is now a serious problem , according to President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf. HIV/AIDS is now a seriou
Botswana: More funds need to curb HIV/AIDS-related child deaths: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 20, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 20 April (PLUSNEWS) - More resources could help curb the increasing number of children dying of HIV/AIDS-related illnesses in Botswana , according to the UN Children s Fund (UNICEF). If Botswana had more HIV testing facilities for
Southern Africa: Fudging the UNGASS report card: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 20, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 20 April (PLUSNEWS) - As high-level negotiations get underway in preparation for the UN General Assembly s Special Session on HIV/AIDS (UNGASS), civil society organisations in Southern Africa are struggling to make their voices hea
Uganda: TB and HIV treatment for IDPs: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 20, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 20 April (PLUSNEWS) - The international medical NGO, Medicins Sans Frontieres (MSF), is to provide free antiretroviral (ARV) drugs to internally displaced persons (IDPs) in northern Uganda s Lira district. MSF s project coordinator
Zambia: VCT/condom takeup low - survey: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 20, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 20 April (PLUSNEWS) - Zambia s 2005 Sexual Behaviour Survey , published on Wednesday, revealed that only 13 percent of the population has been tested for HIV, while condom use was lower than in previous years, indicating a declinin
Tanzania: Zanzibar's clerics join fight against HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 19, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] STONE TOWN, 19 April (PLUSNEWS) - Muslim clerics on Tanzania s semiautonomous island of Zanzibar are using religious messages to woo citizens into changing their behaviour to curb the spread of HIV. Sheikh Khalid Muhammad Mrisho, the main speake
Southern Africa: Migrants find sex trade a dead end street: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 19, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 19 April (PLUSNEWS) - Last March Janet (not her real name) took a hard look at her prospects and made a drastic decision. Equipped with little more than a friend s phone number, she joined the growing number of Zimbabweans who cros
Swaziland: Comprehensive OVC policy unveiled: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 19, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MBABANE, 19 April (PLUSNEWS) - Swaziland has launched a comprehensive policy to deal with its rapidly expanding population of orphans and vulnerable children (OVC). The US $234.7 million National Plan of Action (NPA) seeks to address the health
Mozambique: The road across the border doesn't go to the promised land: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 19, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MAPUTO, 19 April (PLUSNEWS) - I want to forget the past and now try to improve my life, said Sonia, examining with satisfaction her new home, a small one-bedroomed brick house without electricity or water on the outskirts of the Mozambican capit
TOGO: 'Condoms are good, but abstinence is better': Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 19, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LOME, 19 April (PLUSNEWS) - After consistently emphasising condoms in their prevention campaigns, organisations in Togo are advocating abstinence, creating confusion among young people. Yesterday they were advertising condoms, now they recommend
Sudan: Grannies step in to care for children orphaned by HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 17, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JUBA, 17 April (PLUSNEWS) - My father died when I was young and my mother died in 2000, said Yomima, 14, one of 250 children known to be orphaned by HIV/AIDS in Juba, the capital of South Sudan . She and her three younger siblings live with thei
Afghanistan: Regional health conference kicks off: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 17, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KABUL, 17 Apr 2006 (IRIN) - A four-day regional conference to discuss ways of boosting cooperation in Asia to curb infectious diseases in the region started in the Afghan capital, Kabul, on Monday. The conference, entitled: Health for All and H
Uganda: Access HIV/AIDS services improving in war-torn north: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 14, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] PATONGO, 14 April (PLUSNEWS) - Over 90 percent of the displaced population in the northern Ugandan district of Pader live in overcrowded camps, relying on handouts from relief agencies for their survival, where the problem of HIV/AIDS can t alwa
Ethiopia: Govt treatment programme brings hope to thousands: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] ADDIS ABABA, 13 April (PLUSNEWS) - In January 2005 the Ethiopian government launched a programmed to give universal access to free antiretroviral therapy (ART) to people living with HIV/AIDS. Just over a year later, the initiative has changed th
Namibia: AIDS envoy Lewis hails progress, but underlines lack of capacity: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] WINDHOEK, 13 April (PLUSNEWS) - Namibia s efforts to combat the HIV pandemic have made good progress despite a shortage of funds and lack of capacity, said Stephen Lewis, UN special AIDS envoy for Africa. The political commitment is there and ex
South Africa: Health minister blames media for risking AIDS awareness: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 13 April (PLUSNEWS) - South Africa s health minister is holding the media responsible for publicising former deputy president Jacob Zuma s testimony in his rape trial, saying it might reverse gains made in HIV/AIDS awareness. A
South Africa: Govt pulls back on barring civil society from UN session on HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 13 April (PLUSNEWS) - South Africa s health ministry has reversed its decision to block the Treatment Action Campaign (TAC), an AIDS lobby group, from attending the upcoming UN General Assembly Special Session on AIDS. On Wednesday
Africa: Continent must step up prevention efforts to stop HIV/AIDS - AU: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 12, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] ADDIS ABABA, 12 Apr 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Africa, which has the highest number of HIV infections in the world, must scale up its prevention efforts to reverse this trend, said the president of the African Union Commission, Alpha Oumar Konare.
Iraq: Amid violence, health workers appeal for blood donations: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 12, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] BAGHDAD, 12 Apr 2006 (IRIN) - The National Blood Transfusion Centre (NBTC) in the capital, Baghdad, is making urgent appeals for blood donations due to a shortage caused by the worsening security situation and rising sectarian violence. We ne
Central African Republic: Interview with Joseph Foumbi, UN humanitarian coordinator: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 12, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] BANGUI, 12 Apr 2006 (IRIN) - The Central African Republic (CAR) is facing a serious humanitarian crisis in the northwest of the country, where people have seen their living conditions rapidly deteriorate during the past three years, since Gen F
Kenya: Back to class in Kibera slums: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 12, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 12 Apr 2006 (IRIN) - Maureen Akinyi, a 14-year-old Kenyan pupil who had dropped out of school following the death of her parents four years ago, is now back in class thanks to Kenya s free primary education initiative. I would still be
Pakistan: Hijras caught in no man's land between two genders: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 12, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LAHORE, 12 Apr 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Looking carefully at her reflection in a shop window, Azra combs out her dark, somewhat stringy hair. She then coyly flicks the lock back over her shoulder, adjusts her red duppatta (scarf), and approaches
Uzbekistan: On the way to achieving UN development goals: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 11, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] TASHKENT, 11 Apr 2006 (IRIN) - The United Nations office in Uzbekistan launched its first Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) report for the country in the capital, Tashkent, on Tuesday. The study, complied in cooperation with the government, p
Namibia: HIV/AIDS brings change in Himba communities: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 11, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] WINDHOEK, 11 April (PLUSNEWS) - Namibia s pastoral Himba community has largely remained separate from the rest of Namibian society, but NGOs warn that their cultural practices and isolation from HIV/AIDS prevention efforts could heighten their v
Southern Africa: Leaders commit to stepping up HIV/AIDS prevention: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 11, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 11 April (PLUSNEWS) - An initiative by African governments to step up the pace of HIV prevention was launched on Tuesday at four simultaneous events across the continent. African health ministers designated 2006 as the Year for Acc
South Africa: Skills base rocked by AIDS - analysts: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 11, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 11 April (PLUSNEWS) - Business analysts have said the impact of HIV/AIDS on South African skills base is causing a negative effect on the economy, the South African Press Association reported. Speaking during the inaugural Private
South Africa: Zuma remarks inundates AIDS help line: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 11, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 11 April (PLUSNEWS) - South Africa s National AIDS help line says it has been flooded with calls from people seeking clarity on former deputy president Jacob Zuma s remarks about HIV prevention. Zuma, currently on trial for sexual
South Africa: COSATU reacts to TAC exclusion: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 11, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 11 April (PLUSNEWS) - The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) says government must reverse its decision to exclude AIDS lobby groups from an upcoming UN General Assembly Special Session on AIDS. Authorities barred the T
South Africa: Business a big spender on AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 10 April (PLUSNEWS) - Business has become a major player in the battle against HIV/AIDS in South Africa , which kills more than 900 people a day, The Economist magazine reported. Delegates at the nation s first-ever Private-Sector
Uganda: Alicia Keys in visit to support HIV/AIDS centre: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KAMPALA, 10 April (PLUSNEWS) - Grammy-award winning singer Alicia Keys is in Uganda on a four-day trip to support anti-HIV/AIDS efforts. She is one of several high profile American celebrities supporting the New York-based charity, Keep a Child
South Africa: UN dragged into AIDS row: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 10 April (PLUSNEWS) - Treatment Action Campaign (TAC) a South African AIDS lobby group, has handed a damning indictment of the government s response to HIV/AIDS to the UN. The TAC, who were blocked from attending the forthcoming UN
Sudan: War-scarred south ill-equipped to deal with HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] BOR, 10 April (PLUSNEWS) - Southern Sudan , slowly emerging from a 21-year civil war that left it bereft of even the most basic services, is waking up to the reality of HIV/AIDS in a population with little awareness and few prevention and care m
Somalia: Fighting HIV in a chronic emergency: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 7, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 7 April (PLUSNEWS) - Severe food shortages and continuing conflict in large parts of war-scarred Somalia have stretched people s coping strategies to breaking point, but for those who are HIV positive every day brings another struggle t
Sudan: Returning refugees spark fear of HIV/AIDS spread in unprepared south: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 7, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] BOR, 7 April (PLUSNEWS) - In a crumbling hospital building, pock-marked by bullet holes, Dr Agot Alier Leek admits that he doesn t know the HIV/AIDS prevalence rate in the war-scarred garrison town of Bor in southern Sudan . We b
Zimbabwe: Adult population to die before age 40, says UN report: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 7, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 7 April (PLUSNEWS) - Zimbabwean women have the shortest lifespan in the world, according to a new report released by the World Health Organisation (WHO) on Friday. Neither men nor women in one of the world s fastest shrinking econo
Nepal: Stronger HIV/AIDS awareness urgently needed: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 7, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KATHMANDU, 7 April (PLUSNEWS) - Talking to locals in the back streets of Kathmandu s bustling Thamel district, a touristic honeycomb packed with hippies and would-be mountaineers, opinions can vary greatly on the causes and effects of HIV/AIDS.
Mozambique: Common AIDS control fund announced: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 7, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 7 April (PLUSNEWS) - Mozambique and seven major donors this week established a common account and new code of conduct, aimed at improving efforts to control the spread of HIV/AIDS. The country s official news agency, AIM, reported
South Africa: Red Cross launches new anti-AIDS plan: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 7, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 7 April (PLUSNEWS) - The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) launched a new initiative on Thursday in Johannesburg, South Africa , to bolster HIV/AIDS efforts in 10 Southern African countries.
Ethiopia: WFP to feed HIV-positive adults and OVC: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 7, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 7 April (PLUSNEWS) - The World Food Programme (WFP) and the government of Ethiopia s Amhara state are collaborating to assist children and adults affected by HIV/AIDS. In a statement WFP said the project was part of ongoing nationa
Tanzania: New dosage for TB patients introduced: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 6, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] DAR ES SALAAM, 6 Apr 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Tanzanians suffering from tuberculosis (TB) now have fewer pills to swallow, thanks to a new treatment, which reduces the daily dosage of tablets from between 11 and 12 to three or four. I have been o
South Africa: Rape trial testimony sets back AIDS awareness, say NGOs: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 6, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 6 Apr 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - HIV/AIDS activists have expressed concern that testimony by former South African deputy president Jacob Zuma, who is standing trial for rape, might reverse the gains made in creating awareness about th
Lesotho: 'Know your status' drive needs $12.5m and people's cooperation: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 6, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MASERU, 6 April (PLUSNEWS) - The success of Lesotho s plan to increase access to HIV/AIDS treatment will depend on a national commitment to being tested for the virus and a R75 million (US $12.5 million) financial boost. Motloheloa Phooko, Minis
South Africa: Conference highlights plight of OVC: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 6, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 6 April (PLUSNEWS) - Local and international delegates are attending a five-day conference in Johannesburg, South Africa , to discuss the needs of orphans and vulnerable children (OVC). The meeting, organised by the Children in Dis
South Africa: Novel business AIDS conference kicks off: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 6, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 6 April (PLUSNEWS) - South Africa s first-ever Private-Sector Conference on HIV/AIDS kicked off on Wednesday in Midrand, near Johannesburg. According to a statement issued by the South African Coalition on HIV/AIDS (SABCOHA), the t
South Africa: AIDS/TB get govt cash injection: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 6, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 6 April (PLUSNEWS) - Almost US $2 million has been allocated to fight HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis (TB) in South Africa s Western Cape city of Cape Town. According to the local Argus newspaper, the funds approved by the city council l
Lesotho: Guidelines to help OVC caregivers: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 5, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MASERU, 5 Apr 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - A rapidly increasing population of orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) in Lesotho has forced the government and NGOs to draw up guidelines for their care. The Residential Care for Vulnerable Children and
Uganda: New policy keeps HIV-positive people out of armed forces: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 5, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KAMPALA, 5 April (PLUSNEWS) - The Ugandan army will no longer recruit HIV-positive people, the spokesman for the Uganda People s Defence Forces (UPDF), Maj Felix Kuraije, said on Monday. The UPDF s decision to stop recruiting HIV-positive indivi
South Africa: Heat-resistant AIDS drug on way: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 5, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 5 April (PLUSNEWS) - US drug giant Abbott Laboratories on Tuesday filed for South African registration of a heat-resistant tablet version of its anti-AIDS drug, Kaletra . Abbott s move comes abo
Uganda: Activists react to defence force AIDS ruling: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 5, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 5 April (PLUSNEWS) - Ugandan AIDS activists have criticised a recent decision by the nation s military to bar HIV-positive soldiers from some training programmes. Rubaramira Ruranga, a local HIV-positive major who served for 24 yea
Uganda: Abstinence - the safest or most dangerous HIV strategies?: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 4, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KAMPALA, 4 April (PLUSNEWS) - Pumping his fists in the air, Pastor Martin Ssempa strides up and down the stage at one end of a swimming pool at Uganda s Makerere University, where thousands of students listen excitedly to the evangelist s simple
Mozambique: Donors to be asked to make good on pledges: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 4, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 4 April (PLUSNEWS) - The Association of European Parliamentarians for Africa (AWEPA) is to pressurise donors for increased support to combat HIV/AIDS on the continent, Mozambique s official news agency, AIM, reported on Monday.
South Africa: Ex-deputy president's HIV status in question: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 4, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 4 April (PLUSNEWS) - Former South African deputy president Jacob Zuma testified on Tuesday that he had had sex with an HIV-positive woman because the risk of infection was slight, the South African Press Association reported. I
South Africa: AIDS survey to be undertaken in prisons: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 4, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 4 April (PLUSNEWS) - The South African Department of Correctional Services (DCS) has announced plans to undertake a survey of HIV prevalence in the nation s 240 prisons. DCS spokesman Bheki Manzini said the study would be conducted
Mozambique: Donors urge greater AIDS commitment: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 3, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 3 April (PLUSNEWS) - Partners in Mozambique s fight against HIV/AIDS have called for greater government commitment and more ambitious targets. Marcia Colquhoun, of the Irish embassy, told a gathering in the capital, Maputo, on Frid
Zambia: High-profile HIV testing call renewed: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 3, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 3 April (PLUSNEWS) - Zambian medical experts are again pushing for the nation s leaders to undergo mandatory HIV testing as a means of combating related stigma and discrimination. According to ANDnetwork, an online African news ser
South Africa: UNGASS exclusion angers AIDS activists: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 3, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 3 April (PLUSNEWS) - The South African AIDS lobby group, Treatment Action Campaign (TAC), says government intolerance of criticism is to blame for its exclusion from a recent high-level UN discussion on AIDS targets and interventio
Kyrgyzstan: Criminal case following disclosure of HIV/AIDS status: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 3, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JALAL-ABAD, 3 Apr 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - A civic group has initiated criminal proceedings against a health official in Kyrgyzstan for allegedly disclosing the status of a person living with HIV/AIDS in the first case of its kind in the country.
Uganda: Global Fund probe reveals massive graft: Integrated Regional Information Networks - April 3, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KAMPALA, 3 April (PLUSNEWS) - An ongoing probe into the misuse of money from the Global Fund on AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria in Uganda has unearthed a pile of filth in the running of affairs in the East African country, according to James Ogoo
Congo: Interview with Madeleine Yila Bompoto, coordinator of efforts to reintegrate ex-child soldiers: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 31, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] BRAZZAVILLE, 31 Mar 2006 (IRIN) - One of the consequences of 10 years of intermittent war in the Republic of the Congo (ROC) is the number of child soldiers who must now adapt to civilian life. With support from the International Labour Office
Guinea-Bissau: Traditional healing to get its place in the sun: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 31, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] BAFATA, 31 March (PLUSNEWS) - Guinean traditional healers have been sidelined by health officials and received little support for researching their remedies, but this is set to change. Earlier this month, Paulo Mendes, coordinator of the Nationa
Uganda: HIV-positive women stigmatised by major hospital - report: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 31, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KAMPALA, 31 March (PLUSNEWS) - HIV-positive pregnant women are experiencing discrimination and abuse at Mulago Hospital, Uganda s largest referral facility, according to a report published by a local human rights NGO, Foundation for Human Rights
Africa: Global Fund warns of AIDS funding crunch: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 31, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 31 March (PLUSNEWS) - The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria risks reneging on promises to millions of HIV-positive people, a senior official said on Thursday. The Fund s executive director, Richard Feachem, said w
Uganda: Government launches AIDS vaccine research guidelines: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 31, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 31 March (PLUSNEWS) - Uganda has launched guidelines for AIDS vaccine research to provide overall direction regarding scientific, legal, ethical and policy issues in HIV/AIDS vaccine research. If someone wants to do research i
Zambia: EC backs drought and AIDS relief: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 30, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 30 March (PLUSNEWS) - The European Commission (EC) on Wednesday announced a pledge of US $2.6 million to reduce the cumulative effects of drought and HIV/AIDS in Zambia . Up to two million people are facing food shortages in the co
Africa: ARVs missing pregnant women - WHO: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 29, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 29 March (PLUSNEWS) - Fewer than 10 percent of HIV-positive women in developing countries received antiretrovirals (ARVs) during pregnancy and childbirth between 2003 and 2005, according to a new report. In a report admitting that
Kenya: Drought, poverty forcing young women into risky commercial sex: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 29, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MAKINDU, 29 March (PLUSNEWS) - As night falls in Makindu, a truck stop on the highway between the capital, Nairobi, and the port city of Mombasa, the fluorescent lights and blaring music of the bars and lodges signal the start of yet another eve
Tanzania: New brand of condoms launched: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 29, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] DAR ES SALAAM, 29 March (PLUSNEWS) - A new brand of male condom, Dume (Kiswahili for masculine), has been launched in Tanzania , prompting activists to call for an aggressive education campaign for their use in preventing the spread of HIV/AIDS.
South Africa: ARV solution sought for HIV-positive inmates: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 29, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 29 March (PLUSNEWS) - A hunger strike by HIV-positive inmates at South Africa s Westville Prison, in the east coast city of Durban, has ended after interventions by the correctional service department. Some 120 prisoners embarked o
Zimbabwe: AIDS awareness planned as school subject: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 29, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 29 March (PLUSNEWS) - Zimbabwe has announced plans to implement HIV/AIDS awareness as an examinable subject from primary to tertiary school levels. Given the seriousness of the pandemic, said Health and Child Welfare Minister David
Africa: Clinton urges wider HIV testing: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 29, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 29 March (PLUSNEWS) - Universal HIV testing in developing countries with high levels of infection could prove valuable in tackling the spread of the pandemic, former US President Bill Clinton said on Tuesday. However, he stressed t
Mozambique: Trying to bridge human cost and economic benefit: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 28, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 28 Mar 2006 (IRIN) - A rights NGO has warned that a proposed a bridge across the Zambezi River in central Mozambique would not only bring economic prosperity to the region, but also pose a real threat of child prostitution and the
South Africa: HIV-positive inmates hungry for ARVs: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 28, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 28 March (PLUSNEWS) - HIV-positive prisoners are literally starving for antiretroviral (ARV) drugs at South Africa s Westville Prison, in the east coast city of Durban. Some 242 inmates embarked on a hunger strike early on Monday,
Kenya: Hungry for help - HIV-positive people struggle to survive in drought-hit east: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 28, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MAKINDU, 28 March (PLUSNEWS) - As the unrelenting sun sears the hard, red earth of eastern Kenya s Makueni district, dust devils carry balls of dry grass across the land where some 3.5 million Kenyans face severe food shortages after several con
Nigeria: Condom ads stir passionate debate: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 27, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LAGOS, 27 March (PLUSNEWS) - Efforts to promote condom use in Nigeria could be threatened when the Nigerian Code of Advertising Practice starts being more strictly enforced on 1 July this year. Unhappy with current condom awareness campaigns, th
Burundi: Catholic Church demands proof of HIV testing before marriage: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 27, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 27 March (PLUSNEWS) - Roman Catholic Church leaders in Burundi have told priests not to conduct wedding ceremonies unless the bride and groom have taken an HIV test. According to the BBC, those found to be positive could still be m
Namibia: Calls for the legalisation of prostitution: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 24, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] WINDHOEK, 24 March (PLUSNEWS) - When former Namibian health minister Libertina Amathila made an emotional plea five years ago for prostitution to be legalised, her cabinet colleagues, parliament and the churches shot her views down, saying they
Uganda: Misuse of funds revealed as global fund inquiry quizzes ministers: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 24, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KAMPALA, 24 March (PLUSNEWS) - A commission of inquiry grilled Uganda s health ministers this week over a corruption scandal that NGOs say prevented donor money from reaching the severely sick. The commission investigating the suspension of fund
Nigeria: Anti-gay bill could hinder AIDS interventions: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 24, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 24 March (PLUSNEWS) - Proposed legislation to criminalise same-sex relationships in Nigeria could hamper anti-AIDS efforts, rights groups said on Thursday. A joint statement by 16 local and international NGOs said the bill would no
South Africa: HIV exacerbates TB burden: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 24, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 24 March (PLUSNEWS) - HIV/AIDS is adding to South Africa s tuberculosis (TB) burden, with a high proportion of infected people also being co-infected with HIV, medical experts said ahead of World TB Day on Friday. About 185,000 new
Africa: WHO anti-HIV/TB efforts ineffective - MSF: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 24, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 24 March (PLUSNEWS) - International medical NGO, Medecins sans Frontieres (MSF) says the World Health Organisation (WHO) has been ineffective against co-infection by tuberculosis (TB) and HIV/AIDS. MSF officials charged that the UN
Zimbabwe: Traditional healing centres to supplement ailing health system: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 23, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] BULAWAYO, 23 March (PLUSNEWS) - The Zimbabwean government is stepping up its efforts to include traditional medicine in the ailing health sector, officials told PlusNews, but traditional healers feel more can be done. Although indigenous medicin
Africa: AIDS hinders TB interventions - WHO: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 23, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 23 March (PLUSNEWS) - The presence of HIV/AIDS has slowed efforts to control tuberculosis (TB) in Africa, the World Health Organisation (WHO) said in a report released ahead of World TB Day on 24 March. According to its Global Tube
Angola: Doctors discriminate against HIV positive people: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 23, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LUANDA, 23 March (PLUSNEWS) - HIV-positive people in Angola face stigma and discrimination not only from their relatives, friends or neighbours, but also from health professionals who do not know enough about HIV/AIDS. Felisberta Massango, a
Africa: Radio tracking planned for diverted ARVs: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 23, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 23 March (PLUSNEWS) - Multinational drug giant GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) announced plans on Wednesday to tackle counterfeiting and diversion of its anti-AIDS drug, Trizivir , by radio tracking.
Africa: NGOs propose new anti-AIDS model: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 23, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 23 March (PLUSNEWS) - African and international NGOs are proposing that the widely used anti-AIDS model of Abstinence, Be faithful and Condom use (ABC) should be replaced. Christian Aid and its partner, the African Network of Relig
Namibia: AIDS programmes forgetting elderly caregivers: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 22, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 22 March (PLUSNEWS) - Namibia s HIV/AIDS policies have not kept pace with the extent to which the elderly can contribute to the fight against the pandemic. Marie Farmer, chief social worker in the Ministry of Health and Social Serv
Uganda: New AIDS project for war-torn north: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 22, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 22 March (PLUSNEWS) - The international relief organisation, World Vision, is using US $1.2 million donated by the Netherlands to tackle HIV/AIDS in northern Uganda s war-torn Gulu district. World Vision s resident representati
Tanzania: Bars, sex trade fuelling HIV spread, say Zanzibar's Muslims: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 20, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] STONE TOWN, 20 March (PLUSNEWS) - The battle against HIV/AIDS in Zanzibar will not succeed as long as trade in alcohol and commercial sex work continue to thrive on the island, according to Muslim leaders. Zanzibar would have been free of HIV/AI
Southern Africa: Lewis "frantic" over slow AIDS response for women: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 20, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 20 March (PLUSNEWS) - A senior UN official says there is an urgent need to tackle the gender discrimination that for too long has feminised HIV/AIDS in Africa. After a recent trip to Lesotho and
South Africa: University reacts to herbal AIDS cure claims: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 20, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 20 March (PLUSNEWS) - South Africa s University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) has distanced itself from the controversy surrounding traditional healer Zeblon Gwala s immune booster , Ubhejane. Gwala quoted research from UKZN to support c
Mozambique: ARV step-up planned despite AIDS impact: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 20, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 20 March (PLUSNEWS) - Mozambique has announced plans to more than double the number of people receiving free antiretrovirals (ARV) by the end of 2006, Reuters reported. Health Minister Paulo Ivo Garrido said this would bring to 50,
Africa: Additional OVC support urged: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 20, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 20 March (PLUSNEWS) - Save the Children, a British charity, called on Monday for greater international aid to be given to orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) in Africa. In a new report, Missing on Mother s Day , the organisation
Kenya: Treating more than just HIV/AIDS in Nairobi's Kibera slum: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 17, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 17 March (PLUSNEWS) - Kibera, the sprawling mass of tightly packed structures roofed with corrugated iron that makes up the largest slum in Nairobi, the Kenyan capital, is home to more than 600,000 people, most of whom relocated from th
Uganda: Stuck in the closet: gays left out of HIV/AIDS strategy: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 17, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KAMPALA, 17 March (PLUSNEWS) - In a dimly lit karaoke bar in a suburb of Kampala, the capital, Crystal Namanya belts out Madonna s Get into the Groove , following the words as they run across a television screen. Her rendition is a crowd pleaser
Kenya: Anglicans apologise for AIDS discrimination: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 17, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 17 March (PLUSNEWS) - The Anglican Church in Kenya issued a public apology on Thursday for shunning people living with HIV/AIDS. Our earlier approach in fighting AIDS was misplaced, since we likened it to a disease for sinners and
Kenya: Possible risk of Global Fund cash withdrawal: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 17, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 17 March (PLUSNEWS) - Kenya risks losing more than US $100 million in new donor funds due to a lack of transparency regarding previous grants, the local Standard newspaper reported on Thursday. The Global Fund to fight HIV/AIDS
Africa: WHO plan for TB/AIDS co-infection unveiled: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 17, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 17 March (PLUSNEWS) - The World Health Organisation (WHO) announced a new strategy on Friday to expand its existing tuberculosis (TB) programmes and prevent HIV/AIDS co-infection. WHO s ambitious plan hopes to raise US $56 billion
Africa: Stand-alone ARV programmes not enough - study: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 17, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 17 March (PLUSNEWS) - Stand-alone antiretroviral (ARV) interventions in developing countries could have an adverse affect on the pandemic, a new study has warned. The findings, published in the latest issue of PLoS Medicine, conclu
Central African Republic: Interview with L�od�gal Bazira, WHO representative in CAR: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 16, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] BANGUI, 16 Mar 2006 (IRIN) - Central African Republic , one of Africa s poorest countries, has been facing unprecedented health problems since the onset of military mutinies in mid-1996. Health Infrastructures have all but collapsed, in the fac
Zambia: A snip in time can save lives: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 16, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LUSAKA, 16 March (PLUSNEWS) - Fifteen year-old Chitambu Kalezyi recently came back from a month-long bush camp where he participated in the mukanda traditional ceremony, practiced by the major ethnic groups of the Northwestern province of
South Africa: Zuma's chances of HIV infection highlighted: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 16, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 16 March (PLUSNEWS) - Expert witnesses on Thursday discussed the possibility of former South African deputy president Jacob Zuma having contracted HIV from the woman he allegedly raped. The South African Press Association reported
Somalia: Interim govt launches south-central AIDS commission: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 15, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 15 March (PLUSNEWS) - Somalia s Transitional Federal Government on Tuesday launched a commission to coordinate HIV/AIDS activities in the central and southern regions of the war-scarred Horn of Africa nation. Somalis everywhere must be
Zimbabwe: Farming needs new measures against AIDS - Govt: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 15, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 15 March (PLUSNEWS) - Southern Africa needs new measures to combat the impact of HIV/AIDS on agriculture and food security, Zimbabwean Agriculture Deputy Minister, Sylvester Nguni has said. Nguni told the Southern and Eastern Regio
Zambia: New PEPFAR cash allocated for HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 15, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 15 March (PLUSNEWS) - The US is to give a further $150 million towards the development of Zambia s health infrastructure and other HIV/AIDS-related activities. Speaking on Tuesday in Ndola, 350 km north of the capital, Lusaka, the
Nigeria: Number of ARV sites more than doubled: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 15, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 15 March (PLUSNEWS) - Nigeria has more than doubled its number of free antiretroviral (ARV) treatment facilities, the National Action Committee on AIDS (NACA) said on Tuesday. According to NACA chairman Babatunde Osotimehin, this b
Southern Africa: Prison AIDS, overcrowding and food shortage lamented: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 15, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 15 March (PLUSNEWS) - Prisons in Southern African are battling HIV/AIDS and food shortages as a result of overcrowding and inadequate resources, according to Zambian Prison Services Commissioner Jethro Mumbuwa. At the start of a si
Tanzania: Mining firm to begin ARV provision: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 14, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MWADUI, 14 March (PLUSNEWS) - Tanzania s Williamson Diamonds Limited (WDL), located in Mwadui, some 800 km north of the commercial capital, Dar es Salaam, will start providing antiretroviral therapy to employees, their families and people living
Africa: Global partnership to scale up paediatric ARVs: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 14, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 14 March (PLUSNEWS) - A new partnership announced in Washington on Monday aims to reduce barriers to treatment for HIV-positive children in developing countries. The collaboration, which includes drug giant GlaxoSmithK
Swaziland: Global Fund ARV suspension lifted: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 14, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 14 March (PLUSNEWS) - The Global Fund on HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria has lifted its three-month suspension of providing free antiretroviral (ARV) drugs in Swaziland . The Fund stopped supplying anti-AIDS medicines in October
South Africa: Media rapped over AIDS reporting: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 14, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 14 March (PLUSNEWS) - HIV infection rates could be reduced if journalists were doing their job well, an expert in the field of AIDS reporting said on Monday. According to Dr Elinor Burkett, of the University of Alaska s journalism
Cameroon: "Aunties" teach pregnant teenagers to prevent HIV/AIDS and STIs: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] YAOUNDE, 13 March (PLUSNEWS) - Teenage pregnancy is a growing concern in Cameroon , where young people make up most of the 5.5 percent of the population living with HIV, according to the National Network of the Associations of Aunties (Reseau na
Africa: Blog gives HIV-positive Portuguese women a voice: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 13 March (PLUSNEWS) - The Portuguese service of the HIV/AIDS news agency PlusNews is providing a space for HIV-positive women in Africa s five Lusophone countries to tell of their experiences. Launched during International Women s
Africa: Greater support urged for commonwealth's HIV-positive: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 13 March (PLUSNEWS) - Britain s Queen Elizabeth II, on Monday called for greater acceptance of and assistance for people living with HIV/AIDS globally. Delivering her Commonwealth Day message in Sydney, Australia
Zimbabwe: Sanctions blamed for poor ARV rollout: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 13 March (PLUSNEWS) - Zimbabwe blames its declining healthcare system and anti-AIDS drug shortages on economic sanctions imposed by developed countries, according to the official Herald newspaper, which described the sanctions as
Mozambique: Govt announces ARV expansion plan: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 13 March (PLUSNEWS) - The Mozambican Health Ministry plans to have 50,000 HIV-positive people on antiretroviral (ARV) treatment by the end of this year. However, Health Minister Ivo Garrido stressed that existing anti-AIDS programm
Tanzania: Muslims clerics decry AIDS without condoms: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 10 March (PLUSNEWS) - Officials leading the fight against HIV/AIDS on Tanzania s island of Zanzibar are looking at ways of engaging Muslim leaders, who are against the promotion of condom use. Fadhil Soraga, a local Islamic scholar
Southern Africa: Military taking control of AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 10 March (PLUSNEWS) - The military in parts of Southern Africa are becoming some of the most effective combatants against HIV/AIDS, the Chicago Tribune reported this week. Martin Rupia, of the Institute for Security Studies in Pret
Africa: Toronto prepares for largest AIDS gathering: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 10 March (PLUSNEWS) - Preparations are underway for the 16th International AIDS Conference in Toronto, Canada , at which the organisers expect some 20,000 delegates. The weeklong gathering, from 13 to 18 August, will focus on the n
Zambia: Rights abuses decried amid AIDS impact: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 9, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 9 March (PLUSNEWS) - Zambia President Levy Mwanawasa has called for an end to retrogressive practices like sexual cleansing, especially in light of the advent of HIV/AIDS. Commemorating International Women s Day in the capital, Lus
Botswana: Decline in teen AIDS rates reported: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 9, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 9 March (PLUSNEWS) - Botswana has reported a reduction in HIV prevalence among youths aged 15 to 19. According to the government s Sentinel Surveillance Study for 2005 , the infection rate dropped from 22.8 percent in 2003 to 17.8
Africa: African grandmothers hailed as unrecognised AIDS heroes: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 9, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 9 March (PLUSNEWS) - The UN Special Envoy for HIV/AIDS in Africa, Stephen Lewis, has launched a campaign to support African grandmothers caring for orphans of the pandemic. Dubbed Grandmothers to Grandmothers , the campaign seeks t
Cameroon: Kribi, a small paradise for tourists and AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 8, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KRIBI, 8 Mar 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - The inhabitants of Kribi, a well-known sea resort on the Gulf of Guinea , were hoping that an oil terminal linking Chad to Cameroon would solve all their problems of unemployment,
Guinea: AIDS patients want less talk and more action: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 8, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NZEREKORE, 8 Mar 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Donors and the government have launched another HIV/AIDS programme in the forest region of south-eastern Guinea , the region with the highest infection rate in the country, but HIV-positive residents are
South Africa: Activists lament AIDS and rights abuses on International Women's Day: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 8, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 8 March (PLUSNEWS) - The rising number of women living with HIV/AIDS globally is directly related to the abuse of women s rights, South African activists said on Wednesday as International Women s Day was commemorated. People Oppos
Zambia: Risky business - Fish for Sex: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 8, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LUSAKA, 8 March (PLUSNEWS) - When fish are scarce in the Kafue Flats wetlands of south-central Zambia , and competition between fish traders is high, fish for sex deals between the female traders and fishermen are often a means of survival for t
Africa: Greater microbicide support urged on International Women's Day: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 8, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 8 March (PLUSNEWS) - World s leaders were urged on Wednesday - International Women s Day - to increase support for the development of women-controlled anti-AIDS methods, such as microbicides. According to Dr Zeda Rosenberg, a direc
South Africa: Small firms own up to AIDS impact: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 8, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 8 March (PLUSNEWS) - Grant Thornton International (GTI), a consultancy firm, has found that small and mid-sized South African companies are viewing HIV/AIDS more seriously than a year ago. Of the 300 respondents in GTI s 2006 Inter
Zimbabwe: Health minister advocates abstinence before condoms: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 8, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 8 March (PLUSNEWS) - Zimbabwean health officials have endorsed the use of condoms only where people fail to abstain or remain faithful to their partners. Health Minister David Parirenyatwa warned that the availability of condoms sh
Africa: Merck to slash anti-AIDS drug price: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 8, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 8 March (PLUSNEWS) - US drug company Merck says it plans to cut the price of its second-line anti-AIDS drug, Stocrin, by up to 20 percent in developing countries. Global campaigners have been pushing drug firms to bring down the co
Zimbabwe: Mandatory HIV testing given a miss: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 7, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 7 March (PLUSNEWS) - Zimbabwe on Tuesday rejected a call by NGOs to make HIV testing compulsory, saying it constituted a violation of human rights. The deputy minister of health and child welfare, Edwin Muguti, said every Zimbabwea
South Africa: Girls dating older men more prone to HIV infection: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 7, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 7 March (PLUSNEWS) - Young South African women are being hard hit by HIV infection resulting from their intimate relationships with older men, according to AIDS experts. Doctor Sue Goldstein, a senior managing researcher for Soul C
Gambia: WHO donates CD4 testing equipment: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 7, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 7 March (PLUSNEWS) - Anti-AIDS efforts in Gambia have been bolstered by a World Health Organisation donation of CD4 monitoring equipment to help measure the immunity of people living with the HI virus. Gambian Secretary of Stat
Cameroon: New vaccine to target vertical HIV transmission: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 7, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 7 March (PLUSNEWS) - A new HIV/AIDS research centre in Cameroon is to create a vaccine to prevent the transmission of HIV through breast-feeding. According to Scidev.net, a leading online science news website, the trials will conti
Tanzania: Italian cash injection for HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 6, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 6 March (PLUSNEWS) - Tanzania s National AIDS Control Programme is to benefit from more than US $2 million pledged by Italy over the weekend, local Guardian newspaper reported. Speaking in the capital Dar es Salaam on Saturday, Ita
South Africa: Improved AIDS data monitoring system: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 6, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 6 March (PLUSNEWS) - South Africa says it plans to implement a system to monitor the health of HIV-positive people on the government s free treatment programme, the local Business Day reported. Just over 100,000 patients were e
Ethiopia: Gov't scales up antiretroviral roll-out: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 6, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 6 Mar 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - The Ethiopian Ministry of Health has announced that it will provide free antiretroviral therapy (ART) and treatment of opportunistic infections for 58,000 HIV-positive people until the beginning of July.
South Africa: AIDS activist victorious in Rath legal battle: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 3, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 3 March (PLUSNEWS) - South Africa s Cape High Court has ordered controversial vitamin salesman Dr Matthias Rath to stop slandering the reputation of AIDS lobby group, the Treatment Action Campaign (TAC). In 2005 Rath ran a high-pro
South Africa: Spread of HIV slowing down - Govt: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 3, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 3 March (PLUSNEWS) - South Africa is making progress against HIV/AIDS by increasing treatment and prevention campaigns, the government said on Thursday. According to Health Minister Manto Tshabalala-Msimang, overall HIV prevalence
Africa: Some support for French airline AIDS tax: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 3, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 3 March (PLUSNEWS) - Twelve countries this week agreed to implement France s proposed airline ticket tax in the fight against HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria in developing countries. The tax plan was first announced at the World
Zimbabwe: More work urged against AIDS and youth risks: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 3, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 3 March (PLUSNEWS) - A lot more needs to be done to stop HIV/AIDS in Zimbabwe , despite strides made in reducing prevalence rates, government officials said on Thursday. Zimbabwe recently became the first Southern African nation to
Cameroon: Kribi, a small paradise for tourists and AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 3, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KRIBI, 3 March (PLUSNEWS) - The inhabitants of Kribi, a well-known sea resort on the Gulf of Guinea , were hoping that an oil terminal linking Chad to Cameroon would solve all their problems of unemployment, poverty and isola
South Africa: Decriminalisation of sex-work sought as anti-AIDS mechanism: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 3, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 3 March (PLUSNEWS) - South African AIDS and rights activists on Friday urged that commercial sex-work be decriminalised as a means of tackling the spread of HIV. The call came as International Sex Worker Rights Day was observed for
Middle East: Interview with head of UNAIDS-MENA region: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 2, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] CAIRO, 2 Mar 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - While HIV/AIDS prevalence in the Middle East remains low compared to most of the world, with less than 1 percent of the population reportedly infected in most countries of the region, experts say epidemics are
South Africa: Sexual assault hidden in culture of silence: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 2, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 2 Mar 2006 (IRIN) - When South Africa s former deputy president appears on a charge of rape at the Johannesburg High Court next week, he s likely to draw a crowd of rousing supporters - including many women. Jacob Zuma, a former l
Namibia: Ships, trucks, clubs and HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 2, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LUSAKA, 2 March (PLUSNEWS) - After spending months at sea or cooped up in a truck for several days, young men working far away from home, arrive in the port city of Walvis Bay with money to burn, helping to fuel HIV infection. Strategically loca
Africa: Better kiddie AIDS care under UN accord: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 2, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 2 March (PLUSNEWS) - The UN Children s Fund (UNICEF) and Baylor College of Medicine in Texas this week promised greater anti-AIDS care and treatment for children in Eastern and Southern Africa. The new partnership was expected help
Malawi: Free female condoms supplied against AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 2, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 2 March (PLUSNEWS) - Banja Lamtsogolo (BLM), a sexual and reproductive health NGO is tackling HIV/AIDS among Malawi s women by handing out free female condoms. BLM community outreach manager, Clement Naunje, said 20,000 condoms wer
South Africa: Silence on French airline AIDS tax proposal: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 1, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 1 March (PLUSNEWS) - South Africa is yet to say if it will implement France s tax on airline tickets to tackle HIV/AIDS in developing countries, the local Business Day newspaper reported. French President Jacques Chirac idea of
Africa: Annan pushes for more anti-AIDS funds: Integrated Regional Information Networks - March 1, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 1 March (PLUSNEWS) - UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan on Tuesday urged the international community to join France s search for new sources of funds against HIV/AIDS in developing nations. Speaking at the opening of the Paris Confere
Africa: Move to end tariffs on vital drugs and diagnostics: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 28, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 28 February (PLUSNEWS) - The US, Switzerland and Singapore are proposing that tariffs on the global trade of medicines and equipment for diseases such as HIV/AIDS, be dropped by developing countries.
South Africa: Aspen making ARV inroads into Africa: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 28, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 28 February (PLUSNEWS) - South African generic drug firm, Aspen Pharmacare, says sales of its antiretrovirals (ARV) into the rest of Africa last year outstripped those back home. Company director Stephen Saad said new products and
South Africa: More research needed into public sector AIDS impact - Mbeki: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 27, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG - South African AIDS activists have lashed out against the denialist manner in which President Thabo Mbeki has chosen to deal with his country s pandemic. In a recent interview with local media, the President maintained that the pub
Kyrgyzstan: HIV/AIDS Film Gains Popularity: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 27, 2006; BISHKEK - A film highlighting the plight of people living with HIV/AIDS in Kyrgyzstan is becoming increasingly popular in major urban areas of the former Soviet republic, where the virus is on the rise. The film, entitled Love as a Trial shows the reality of Kyrgyz society as it works to overcome traditional stereotype
Zimbabwe: EU pledges millions for improved health services: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 27, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG (PLUSNEWS) - The European Union (EU) has pledged US $19 million towards a Zimbabwe s Vital Health Programme , to secure much needed medicines and antiretroviral drugs. According to senior EU officials, the programme was essential to
South Africa: Tiger Brands goes after govt ARV tender: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 27, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG (PLUSNEWS) - Tiger Brands, South Africa s largest food and healthcare company, has its sights set on the government s antiretroviral drug tender, the local Business Day newspaper reported. The US $573 million tender for the governme
Africa: Child mortality progress hampered by AIDS - UNICEF: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 24, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 24 February (PLUSNEWS) - HIV/AIDS has kept global child mortality rates high, despite advances over the decades, a UN Children s Fund (UNICEF) report has said. According to its Global Child Survival and Health report, AIDS was one
Nigeria: Lax AIDS awareness among Bayelsa rural dwellers: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 24, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 24 February (PLUSNEWS) - Government officials in Nigeria s oil producing Bayelsa state, have expressed concern over the poor level of HIV/AIDS awareness among the area s rural folk. Opusiri Otobo, chairman for health in the state h
Swaziland: Concern over "mixed messages" on circumcision: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 24, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 24 February (PLUSNEWS) - Male circumcision is increasingly popular in Swaziland after a South African study showed the practice may prevent HIV infection, Reuters reported. Last year a first ever controlled study found circumcised
Nigeria: Poor AIDS awareness in provinces: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 24, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 24 February (PLUSNEWS) - Government officials in Nigeria s oil producing Bayelsa state, have expressed concern over the poor level of HIV/AIDS awareness among the area s rural population. Opusiri Otobo, chairman for health in the S
South Africa: STI management effort bears fruit - govt: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 24, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 24 February (PLUSNEWS) - South Africa s health ministry says efforts to manage sexually transmitted infections (STIs) - which usually increase the risk of HIV infection - are showing results. Health Minister Manto Tshabalala-Msiman
Africa: Circumcision popular despite concerns: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 24, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 24 February (PLUSNEWS) - Male circumcision is making a comeback in Swaziland after a South African study showed the practice may prevent HIV infection, Reuters reported. Last year a first ever controlled study found circumcised men
Africa: Millions on ARVs by 2008 - Clinton Foundation: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 24, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 24 February (PLUSNEWS) - The Clinton Foundation on Thursday said it hopes to have 2 million of the world s HIV-positive people on antiretroviral (ARV) drugs by 2008. The Foundation s adviser, Ira Magaziner, said the non-profit init
Tajikistan: Donors call on country to strengthen battle against HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 23, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] DUSHANBE, 23 Feb 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - The number of HIV-infected people in Tajikistan could reach 10,000 by the end of this year unless preventive measures were taken immediately, members of the donor community warned on Wednesday. Takin
Angola: Safe fun during carnival urged, as Luanda prepares for annual party: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 23, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LUANDA, 23 February (PLUSNEWS) - This weekend, Luanda will explode in a frenzy of gaudy costumes and masks, wild drumming and dancing. On Saturday, as the sun sets over the Angolan capital, tens of thousands of merrymakers will throng the seasid
Nigeria: Boost in sex education urged: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 23, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 23 February (PLUSNEWS) - Nigeria s National Action Committee on HIV/AIDS (NACA) has called for a greater focus on sex education in the fight against the pandemic. Addressing a recent forum of local AIDS organisations in the capital
Kenya: Teen pregnancy rising despite AIDS impact: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 23, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 23 February (PLUSNEWS) - Teenage pregnancies and unsafe abortions are on the increase in Kenya , despite the impact of HIV/AIDS on the 15 to 24 age group, officials have said. According to Kenya s Director of Medical Services James
South Africa: Eastern Cape announces $43million in AIDS spending: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 23, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 23 February (PLUSNEWS) - South Africa s Eastern Cape Health Department is to spend US $43 million on expanding HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment and care in the province. Provincial director of primary healthcare, Jistasp Khan, said t
Africa: Fishing industry - the one that got away in AIDS prevention: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 22, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LUSAKA, 22 February (PLUSNEWS) - The fishing industry in Africa faces a growing threat of HIV/AIDS, but interventions to address the epidemic are still lagging behind. Stephen Hall, director of the World Fish Centre, warned this week at a worksh
Zimbabwe: Youth instrumental in future HIV/AIDS decline - UNICEF: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 22, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 22 February (PLUSNEWS) - Further reductions in Zimbabwe s HIV/AIDS prevalence rate depends largely on the greater involvement of the country s youth in the fight against the pandemic, according to the UN Children s Fund (UNICEF).
Kenya: US pledges more funds for AIDS in 2006: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 22, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 22 February (PLUSNEWS) - Kenya is to receive just over $208 million for HIV/AIDS in 2006 under the US President s Emergency Fund for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), Reuters reported. According to officials at the US embassy in the capital, N
Kenya: Report highlights falling VCT numbers: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 22, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 22 February (PLUSNEWS) - The number of Kenyans visiting HIV/AIDS voluntary counselling testing (VCT) centres is falling as a result of issues of consent, according to a new report. In a recent joint AIDS assessment survey, the mini
Central African Republic: Donors pledge support for humanitarian crisis: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 21, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] YAOUNDE, CAMEROON, 21 Feb 2006 (IRIN) - A donor conference for the Central African Republic (CAR) has ended in the Cameroonian capital Yaounde, with funding assurances to the poverty-stricken nation. The meeting was successful, but did not
Cameroon: Tuberculosis and AIDS soaring in prisons: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 21, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] EDEA, 21 Feb 2006 (IRIN) - Victor N. no longer has the strength to get up from his straw mattress; he is battling tuberculosis, which has struck for a second time in some months. One of his cellmates in Edea prison near Douala is in the same st
South Africa: Govt adopts more focused approach to help orphans: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 21, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 21 February (PLUSNEWS) - The South African government has begun addressing some of the problems over its delivery of social services, particularly help to orphans and vulnerable children (OVC), according to experts. In the past two
Tanzania: HIV/AIDS counselling centres set up in prisons: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 21, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] DAR ES SALAAM, 21 February (PLUSNEWS) - In a move aimed at stepping up the campaign against the spread of HIV/AIDS in prisons, the Tanzanian government has started establishing vocational counselling and testing (VCT) centres to provide services
Zimbabwe: AIDS fight receives US financial support: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 21, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 21 February (PLUSNEWS) - Deputy US Global AIDS Coordinator Mark Dybul has announced an additional $20.5 million to help Zimbabwe tackle HIV/AIDS. During a recent visit to the Zimbabwe, Dybul noted achievements against the pandemic,
South Africa: First accredited prison anti-AIDS site unveiled: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 21, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 21 February (PLUSNEWS) - South Africa has unveiled its first accredited prison-based HIV/AIDS treatment site just outside Bloemfontein in the Free State province, the official BuaNews agency reported. Provincial minister of hea
South Africa: Govt AIDS awareness campaign paying dividends: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 21, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 21 February (PLUSNEWS) - The South African Ministry of Health is upbeat over results from its HIV/AIDS awareness campaign. Health Minister Manto Tshabalala-Msimang said young people were heeding the government s call for abstinence
Tanzania: HIV/AIDS programmes need to reach rural folk, UN official says: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 20, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] DAR ES SALAAM, 20 Feb 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - UNAIDS Executive Director Peter Piot has expressed some satisfaction with Tanzania s war against HIV/AIDS, but not so with efforts to confront the scourge in rural areas. It appears the programm
Swaziland: Some progress made - Lewis: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 17, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 17 February (PLUSNEWS) - The UN Special Envoy for HIV/AIDS in Africa, Stephen Lewis this week commended the progress made in Swaziland s fight against HIV/AIDS. The country has made a remarkable change, especially with regards to t
Senegal: HIV-positive gays face double stigma: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 17, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] DAKAR, 17 February (PLUSNEWS) - Twenty-four-year old male sex worker Doudou (not his real name) was forced to turn to Senegal s leading gay NGO when his family members threw him out for being a homosexual. When he discovered he was HIV-positive
Nepal: The growing threat of HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 16, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] KATHMANDU, 16 Feb 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Four years ago, Nareshlal Shrestha took the bold step of publicly declaring that he was HIV-positive in a society that still condemns and ostracises people living with the virus. He was one of the first
Ethiopia: Meeting highlights need for national HIV/AIDS workplace policy: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 15, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 15 February (PLUSNEWS) - It is crucial for Ethiopia to develop a national HIV/AIDS workplace policy in order for the country s labour force to be treated fairly, experts say. Speaking at a meeting on the country s draft workplace HIV/AI
Rwanda: UN, European officials hail HIV/AIDS fight: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 15, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 15 February (PLUSNEWS) - Rwanda has built a solid foundation in its fight against HIV/AIDS and is a model for other countries, a joint UN and European mission has said. The mission - which visited Rwanda earlier this week - included Lux
Swaziland: Increased AIDS funding despite poor donor response - King: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 15, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 15 February (PLUSNEWS) - Swazi King Mswati III plans to allocate increased funding for HIV/AIDS prevention programmes and initiatives aimed at orphans and vulnerable children, the Associated Press reported. In a speech delivered du
Africa: BMS grants royalty-free licenses on anti-AIDS drug: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 15, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 15 February (PLUSNEWS) - Multinational drug giant Bristol-Myers Squibb (BMS) has awarded a royalty-free licence of one of its anti-AIDS drugs to two generic drug companies in South Africa and
Namibia: Inheritance rights still a thorny issue: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 14, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] WINDHOEK, 14 February (PLUSNEWS) - When Barakias Shangheta, 17, heard that his father had died at the local hospital in Okakarara, a village northeast of the Namibian capital, Windhoek, he ran to the cattle pastures and rounded up some of the he
Swaziland: Young heroes website appeals for help for AIDS orphans: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 14, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MBABANE, 14 February (PLUSNEWS) - The web page is as brightly coloured as a primary school text book, but the images conjure the anxiety of abandonment and uncertainty that any child would feel at the loss of their parents. Imagine that you re 1
South Africa: Govt backs free will on herbal AIDS remedies: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 14, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 14 February (PLUSNEWS) - South Africa s Ministry of Health has put its support behind people choosing to use traditional HIV/AIDS treatments instead of scientifically proven antiretroviral drugs. Although the opposition Democratic
Libya: French anti-AIDS care for court drama children: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 14, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 14 February (PLUSNEWS) - France has offered to treat a group of HIV-positive Libyan children at the centre of a case in which five Bulgarian nurses and a Palestinian doctor were accused of infecting them and detained in Libya.
South Africa: Fears over AIDS project handover pacified: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 14, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 14 February (PLUSNEWS) - South Africa says there is no need for alarm over the gradual pullout by the international medical NGO, Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF), from its five-year-old AIDS project in Khayelitsha, Cape Town. MSF
Botswana: Lukewarm response to HIV discordance study: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 14, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 14 February (PLUSNEWS) - Botswana s Netefatso study, which monitors HIV transmission among couples in so-called sero-discordant relationships (where one partner is HIV-positive), has received a disappointing enrolment. According to
Tanzania: Free tests draw in more people - study: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NAIROBI, 13 February (PLUSNEWS) - Offering free HIV tests draws three times more people for testing than charging a small fee for the service, according to a study conducted in northern Tanzania by Duke University Medical Center. Researchers
Southern Africa: Armed forces to tackle impact of HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] WINDHOEK, 13 February (PLUSNEWS) - The impact of AIDS on the military has been a topic African armed forces have preferred to keep under wraps, concerned with issues of national security. But in a step towards greater openness, military and civi
Zambia: ARV rollout - quality not quantity?: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LUSAKA, 13 February (PLUSNEWS) - As the Zambian government takes stock of its progress in providing treatment to its HIV-positive citizens during 2005, activists and health officials agree that more emphasis should have been placed on quality, a
South Africa: Sexual activity among young Anglican churchgoers revealed: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 13 February (PLUSNEWS) - Anglican teenagers in South Africa s Western Cape province are almost as sexually active as their peers outside the church, according to a new survey. The findings, reported in the latest issue of the South
South Africa: UK stresses importance of international aid promises: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 13 February (PLUSNEWS) - British Prime Minister Tony Blair this week pledged to press world leaders to do more to tackle famine, conflict and disease in Africa. Blair stressed at a meeting of the New Partnership for Africa s Develo
Africa: Common anti-AIDS drug promising as microbicides: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 13 February (PLUSNEWS) - A US study to evaluate the safety of the anti-AIDS drug, Viread , produced by drug giant Gilead Sciences , as a vaginal microbicide has proven successful in humans.
South Africa: School condom restriction accompanies US funding: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 13 February (PLUSNEWS) - US funds for HIV/AIDS in South Africa are not to be used for the promotion of condom use in schools, the local Star newspaper has reported. Mark Dybul, the deputy US global AIDS co-ordinator, announced an i
Africa: Gilead not meeting cheap ARV promise - MSF: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 10 February (PLUSNEWS) - Multinational drug manufacturer Gilead Sciences is yet to reduce the cost of its antiretroviral drug, Viread , in developing countries, international medical NGO Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) said.
South Africa: University anti-AIDS treatment plan hits snag: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 10 February (PLUSNEWS) - An initiative by South Africa s University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) to provide treatment to HIV-positive students has struck a snag, according to the local Sunday Times newspaper. UKZN s innovative programme
Africa: New nevirapine research challenges earlier findings: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 10 February (PLUSNEWS) - New research from the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that the anti-AIDS drug, nevirapine , can prevent the spread of HIV from mother to child more than once. The study, which
Africa: Global AIDS efforts missing children - UNICEF: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 10 February (PLUSNEWS) - Greater attention must be paid to the needs of children affected by HIV/AIDS, the UN Children s Fund (UNICEF) told an international gathering in London on Thursday. According to UNICEF Executive Director An
Africa: AU vows greater anti-AIDS coverage by 2010: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 9, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 9 February (PLUSNEWS) - The African Union (AU) Commission and international partners have agreed to strengthen HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment efforts on the continent over the next five years. AU Director of Social Affairs Kamel
Uganda: Busia women slow on VCT take-up: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 9, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 9 February (PLUSNEWS) - Expectant mothers are failing to make use of HIV voluntary counselling and testing (VCT) in eastern Uganda s Busia district, according to officials there. District Director of Health Services Dr Oundo Bwire
Uganda: Phase II HIV vaccine trials started: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 9, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 9 February (PLUSNEWS) - Uganda and the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI) have launched a new phase of HIV vaccine trials. The 18-month human trials have enrolled 78 volunteers at five sites to test the safety and efficac
Africa: US global AIDS treatment plan making strides: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 9, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 9 February (PLUSNEWS) - US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice says efforts to increase HIV/AIDS prevention, care and treatment in developing nations are expanding at a steady pace. During the release of the annual progress report
Nigeria: Plans announced for innovative AIDS think-tank: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 8, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 8 February (PLUSNEWS) - Nigeria and UNAIDS have signed an agreement for the establishment of an Africa Centre for AIDS Management. According to the National Action Committee on AIDS (NACA), the purpose of the think-tank is to ensur
South Africa: AIDS played down in president's speech: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 8, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 8 February (PLUSNEWS) - Opposition political parties have questioned South African President Thabo Mbeki s fleeting reference to HIV/AIDS in his recent State of the Nation address. Among others, the African Christian Democratic Par
Southern Africa: India/South Africa cheap AIDS drugs venture announced: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 7, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 7 February (PLUSNEWS) - Indian drug company Ranbaxy and South Africa s Community Investment Holdings (CIH) have agreed to jointly supply cheaper anti-AIDS drug to three Southern African countries. Ranbaxy will hold a 70 percent sta
South Africa: Efficacy of herbal AIDS/TB remedies examined: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 7, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 7 February (PLUSNEWS) - South African and US academics are to research the efficacy of traditional medicines in the fight against tuberculosis (TB), malaria and HIV/AIDS. The announcement was made during a recent seminar at the Uni
Sao Tome And Principe: Dangerous Bananas: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 6, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] SAO TOME, 6 February (PLUSNEWS) - Children are the wealth of the poor, say the fishermen of Angolares on the island of S�o Tom�. If a wife has not conceived after a year of marriage, the families take the couple to a traditional doctor for ferti
South Africa: Race-based blood profiling deemed effective against HIV: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 6, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 6 February (PLUSNEWS) - A South African National Blood Services (SANBS) policy that excluded black blood donors has led to a drop in HIV-tainted blood supplies, according to a US study. Associated Press quoted senior researcher Dr
Zimbabwe: HIV decline reported in Manicaland: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 6, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 6 February (PLUSNEWS) - Changes in sexual behaviour may have contributed to a decline in HIV/AIDS in Zimbabwe s eastern province of Manicaland, according to experts at Britain s Imperial College London. A study published in the lat
West Africa: Year in Review 2005 - Uneven progress in treatment provision: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 3, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] DAKAR, 3 February (PLUSNEWS) - For many West and Central African countries, 2005 was the year of implementation and the reinforcement of their HIV/AIDS treatment programmes. It was also when the World Health Organisation s (WHO) campaign to put
Chad: Worries about AIDS funding crunch after World Bank spat: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 3, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] NDJAMENA, 3 February (PLUSNEWS) - Chad s fight against AIDS is set to be one of the main victims if a standoff between the government and the World Bank drags on, senior UN officials have warned. The World Bank recently suspended all its loans t
Tanzania: Condom taboo in Zanzibar hampers fight against HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 1, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] STONE TOWN, ZANZIBAR, 1 February (PLUSNEWS) - Campaigns to fight HIV/AIDS often focus on the ABC strategy - or Abstinence, Be faithful and use Condoms. However, on the ultra-conservative, predominantly Muslim island of Zanzibar, the condom remai
Mozambique: Newspapers in hot seat over AIDS cure ads: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 1, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MAPUTO, 1 February (PLUSNEWS) - The poorly regulated traditional medicine industry is attracting ever larger numbers of clients with newspaper advertisements that make extravagant claims. Traditional doctor, with experience in Africa and Europe,
South Africa: Workplace AIDS discrimination still rife - ALP: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 1, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 1 February (PLUSNEWS) - Reports of workplace HIV/AIDS discrimination are still common in South Africa , despite most businesses having policies in place, according to the Johannesburg-based AIDS Law Project (ALP). Employers ar
Uganda: Adults leading with HIV infection numbers - survey: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 1, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 1 February (PLUSNEWS) - HIV/AIDS infection rates have shifted from Uganda s youth to older people, the latest population-based national sero survey has revealed. Findings showed that the highest infection rates were now being found
Africa: Experts urge joint AIDS and tropical disease fight: Integrated Regional Information Networks - February 1, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 1 February (PLUSNEWS) - International health experts at a gathering in Stockholm, Sweden , have called for the fight against HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis (TB) and malaria in Africa to focus on other tropical diseases as well. Neglect
Botswana: Routine HIV testing not as straightforward as it sounds: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 31, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] GABORONE, 31 January (PLUSNEWS) - Botswana s decision to introduce routine HIV testing in all its health facilities was driven by the growing realisation that plans to provide anti-AIDS medication were likely to fail unless more people were test
Africa: Doubling of HIV vaccine spending urged: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 30, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 30 January (PLUSNEWS) - The International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI) has called for a doubling of donor commitments to HIV vaccine research, to at least US $1.2 billion annually, Reuters reported. The whole system for vaccines
South Africa: Teachers in dire need of ARVs - study: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 30, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 30 January (PLUSNEWS) - South Africa needs 90 percent antiretroviral (ARV) coverage for HIV-positive teachers, or AIDS could claim more than 5,000 annually, the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) has warned. In a study publ
Rwanda: First ever condom campaign launched: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 30, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 30 January (PLUSNEWS) - Rwanda has launched its first campaign promoting constant and correct condom use in an effort to curb the spread of HIV/AIDS. Agnes Binagwaho, head of the National Commission for the Fight Against AIDS, was
South Africa: New spin on LoveLife campaign: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 30, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 30 January (PLUSNEWS) - The South African youth AIDS NGO, loveLife, has taken a different angle on reaching young adults with HIV prevention messages. Director David Harrison said billboards with provocative phrases such as HIV lo
Swaziland: Campaign to inform women of their legal rights underway: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 27, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MBABANE, 27 January (PLUSNEWS) - The Swaziland branch of Women in Law in Southern Africa has launched an awareness campaign to teach HIV-positive women about their legal rights. There are three issues: acquainting HIV-positive women with their p
Zambia: Promising new combination therapy reduces MTCT: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 26, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG (PLUSNEWS) - Zambia s government has begun using a new drug in its prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) programme, in an effort to reduce drug resistance in both mother and infant. Dr Miriam Chipimo, reproductive healt
Kenya: Social marketing possibly yielding AIDS success: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 26, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG (PLUSNEWS) - Social marketing campaigns to promote behaviour change may be responsible for Kenya s reduced HIV/AIDS infection rates, according to Warren Buckingham, the US resident global AIDS coordinator. Although it was unknown ho
Africa: Drug giant seeks to ensure local ARV availability: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 26, 2006 - January 26, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG (PLUSNEWS) - Swiss pharmaceutical company Roche is to help African firms produce generic versions of its second-line anti-AIDS drug, Saquinavir, as part of its Technology Transfer Initiative. William Burns, director of the Roche pha
Kenya: AIDS awareness hits the highway: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 26, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG - The US has launched a billboard campaign to promote HIV/AIDS awareness along Kenya s Mombasa/Nairobi highway, the Angolan news agency, ANGOP reported on Wednesday. William Bellamy, US ambassador to Kenya, commented, This campaign
Kyrgyzstan: Rise in prostitution threatens to fuel jump in HIV/AIDS: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 25, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] BISHKEK, 25 Jan 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Strolling through the many parks of the Kyrgyz capital, Bishkek, it is hard not to notice the increasing number of commercial sex workers (CSWs) looking for customers. The majority of women, stamping their
Namibia: Poor access to treatment hampers fight against TB: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 25, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] WINDHOEK, 25 Jan 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - Despite its status as a middle-income country, Namibia has a high incidence of tuberculosis (TB), a poverty-related disease. Poor geographical access to health services has hampered the treatment rate of
South Africa: OVC get new shelter: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 25, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 25 January (PLUSNEWS) - Orphaned and vulnerable children (OVC) in the remote town of Kokstad are to benefit from a new facility constructed by the housing department of South Africa s KwaZulu-Natal province. The provincial departme
South Africa: More VCT harm than good in KwaZulu-Natal: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 25, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 25 January (PLUSNEWS) - HIV voluntary counselling and testing (VCT) services in South Africa s KwaZulu-Natal province might be doing more harm than good, AIDS caregivers and activists have charged. Patience Mavata, a nurse in the p
Africa: Thailand delivers on condom pledge: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 24, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 24 January (PLUSNEWS) - The UN Development Programme (UNDP) is to ship 50,000 condoms recently donated by Thailand in an effort to help prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS in seven African countries. This shipment is an expression
South Africa: Concern as MSF starts handover of HIV/AIDS treatment: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 24, 2006; KHAYELITSHA, 24 January (PLUSNEWS) - After five years of groundbreaking work in the treatment of HIV/AIDS, medical humanitarian agency Medecins Sans Frontiers (MSF) are preparing to pull out of their most successful South African programme. They began offering antiretroviral therapy (ART) in the poverty stricken Cape T
AFRICA: Uninterrupted ART vital to longevity - new study: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 24, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 24 January (PLUSNEWS) - Staying on antiretroviral therapy (ART) to keep viral loads low is better than taking structured breaks from the drugs, a study by the US s National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) has
ZIMBABWE: More children abused as situation worsens: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 23, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 23 January (PLUSNEWS) - The worsening humanitarian situation in Zimbabwe is making children more vulnerable to abuse, according to child rights NGOs. For instance, because of the hike in schools fees many children are visiting scho
KENYA: New vaccine trials kick off: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 23, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 23 January (PLUSNEWS) - Kenya , together with the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative and US National Institute of Health, has launched a new HIV vaccine trial in the capital, Nairobi. According to the local East African Standard
ZIMBABWE: Govt/NGOs release draft AIDS policy: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 23, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 23 January (PLUSNEWS) - The draft for a new national HIV/AIDS Strategic Policy has been jointly released by Zimbabwe s AIDS Council and local NGOs, the official Herald newspaper has reported. Based on past lessons and challenges, o
CAMEROON: AIDS cure crackpots draw Govt action: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 23, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 23 January (PLUSNEWS) - People seeking quick money through false claims of HIV/AIDS cures could experience the full effect of the law, Cameroon s Health Minister, Urbain Olanguena Awono, has warned. The frequency of claims being ma
SWAZILAND: More people but still too few testing for HIV: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 20, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MBABANE, 20 January (PLUSNEWS) - HIV/AIDS awareness efforts in the kingdom of Swaziland are slowly bearing fruit, with a growing number of people coming forward to be tested for HIV, a new report has found. According to the AIDS Information
SOUTH AFRICA: Gays and SANBS kiss and make up: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 20, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 20 January (PLUSNEWS) - The impact of HIV/AIDS has led to far greater focus on safe donor blood than ever before, and the South African National Blood Services (SANBS), custodian of the reserves, has managed to step on almost every
AFRICA: Year in Review 2005 - The long slow road to '3 by 5': Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 20, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 20 January (PLUSNEWS) - Almost a month after the deadline, the World Health Organisation s (WHO) campaign to put three million people in the developing world on anti-AIDS drugs by the end of 2005 has failed to meet its target.
AFRICA: Once-a-day anti-AIDS pill show promise: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 20, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 20 January (PLUSNEWS) - A once-daily anti-AIDS treatment, the first of its kind, has been jointly developed by multinational drug firms Gilead and Bristol-Myers Squibb , and could soon outrun current three- times-a-day regimens.
AFRICA: Russian cash injection for Global Fund: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 20, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 20 January (PLUSNEWS) - Russia announced an additional allocation of US $20 million to the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria on Friday. Alexander Makarenko, director of the Foreign Ministry s Africa Department, to
IRAQ: Rise in numbers living with HIV/AIDS, says health ministry: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 19, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] BAGHDAD, 19 Jan 2006 (IRIN/PLUSNEWS) - The health ministry has announced an increase in newly reported cases of HIV/AIDS over the past few months, the first such pronouncement since the fall of the Saddam Hussein regime in 2003. According to Dr
NIGERIA: US millions pledged for AIDS fight: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 19, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG - US First Lady Laura Bush has announced a pledge of $163 million to help tackle HIV/AIDS in Nigeria . The US President s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) released nearly $71 million to Nigeria for the prevention and treatmen
Tanzania: Sex And Condom Education Essential - Govt: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 18, 2006; Tanzania s education ministry has reaffirmed its position on the introduction of reproductive health and HIV/AIDS education at primary school level, despite condemnation from Catholic bishops. The Roman Catholic Church recently slammed the new syllabus, labelling it unacceptable , as the teaching of proper condom use h
Africa: UNESCO And GBC Sign Aids Pact: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 18, 2006; The UN Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) and the Global Business Coalition (GBC) on HIV/AIDS have agreed to jointly encourage greater company action against the pandemic. At a ceremony celebrating the agreement in Paris on Monday, UNESCO Director-General Koichiro Matsuura stressed the importance
Sao Tome And Principe: HIV/Aids Prevention in the Armed Forces: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 18, 2006; The Johns Hopkins University in the US is to implement a year-long HIV/AIDS awareness initiative among the armed forces of Sao Tome and Principe . According to Idalecio Pachire, army commander in the remote island state, the project is to train 500 military personnel in how to educate units and their immediate family m
Africa: Laura Bush Defends Anti-Aids Abstinence Programmes: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 18, 2006; US First Lady Laura Bush defended the focus on sexual abstinence in her government s emergency plan for HIV/AIDS relief (PEPFAR), at the start of her trip to Liberia , Ghana and Nigeria earlier this week. I really have always been a little bit irritated by criticism of abstinence, as it is absolutely,
Mozambique: MSF to Ensure Sustainabiliity of ARV Programme: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 17, 2006; In a bid to ensure the sustainability of its antiretroviral (ARV) treatment programme in Mozambique , the international NGO, Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF), has focussed on skills transfer with the aim of handing over the running of its sites to the government. This would see the government and local community taking o
SOUTH AFRICA: Global AIDS support needed - Govt: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 16, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 16 January (PLUSNEWS) - South Africa s HIV/AIDS fight needs the support of international organisations and donors, Health Minister Manto Tshabalala-Msimang has said. However, she stressed that financial targets relating to the pand
SOUTH AFRICA: AIDS impact forces grave recycling: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 16, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 16 January (PLUSNEWS) - The impact of HIV/AIDS on the South African port city of Durban could soon see the municipality having to recycle graves. According to Thembinkosi Ngcobo, the city s head of parks and cemeteries, the lack of
AFRICA: Vaginal douching increases HIV risk: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 16, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 16 January (PLUSNEWS) - Sex workers performing internal vaginal washing as a means of HIV prevention are three times more likely to contract the virus than those who do not, a 10-year study in Africa has suggested. According to res
AFRICA: Lewis welcomes Clinton AIDS deal: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 16, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 16 January (PLUSNEWS) - The UN has welcomed a deal struck by former US President Bill Clinton to secure cheaper anti-AIDS drugs for the developing world. Clinton announced last week that the deal would not only reduce the cost of s
SOUTH AFRICA: Khomanani adds a new twist to love on Valentine's: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 13 January (PLUSNEWS) - If the government s latest anti-AIDS campaign is anything to go by, Valentine s Day next month could mean more than just chocolates and red roses for some South African couples. By distributing free romantic
SOUTH AFRICA: Gays irked by blood donor policies: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 13 January (PLUSNEWS) - South African gay activists are going ahead with plans to demonstrate outside blood donor clinics on Friday over a decision denying them the right to donate blood. This follows a statement late on Thursday b
AFRICA: Effort for expanded AIDS intervention launched: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 13 January (PLUSNEWS) - An effort to achieve the rollout of universal HIV/AIDS treatment by 2010 was launched at an international gathering in Washington earlier this week. The initiative, announced at the UN Global Steering Commit
AFRICA: Deal struck for cheaper AIDS treatment: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 13, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 13 January (PLUSNEWS) - Former US President Bill Clinton has struck a deal to reduce prices on second-line anti-AIDS drugs for HIV-positive people in the developing world, should they develop resistance to current medications.
AFRICA: Businesses acknowledge future AIDS impact: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 12, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 12 January (PLUSNEWS) - An estimated 46 percent of business leaders say they expect HIV/AIDS to affect their operations within the next five years, a World Economic Forum (WEF), survey has shown. WEF said this was a marked increase
UGANDA: Sweden tackle AIDS and development: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 12, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 12 January (PLUSNEWS) - Ugandans living around Lake Victoria are to benefit from a Swedish funded initiative aimed at addressing the issue of HIV/AIDS and development. According to the local Monitor newspaper, the US $249,000 proje
NIGERIA: Free AIDS treatment sites to double: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 12, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 12 January (PLUSNEWS) - Nigeria plans in the next three months to double its number of anti-AIDS treatment sites to 66, the National Action Committee on AIDS (NACA) announced recently. This comes just a week after the government de
AFRICA: Funding and HIV/AIDS discussed in Sweden: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 11, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG - Swedish government officials held talks on Wednesday with UNAIDS about global efforts to tackle the spread of HIV/AIDS. According to Agence France-Presse, Sweden will be increasing its support to UNAIDS in 2006 by US $6.
ALGERIA: Experts question "low" AIDS statistics: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 11, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG - AIDS experts are concerned that the pandemic is taking hold in Algeria , even though government statistics suggest little cause for alarm. According to data from the Ministry of Health, Population and Hospital Reform, just 20,000
TANZANIA: Roman Catholic bishops oppose teaching of condom use: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] DAR ES SALAAM, 10 January (PLUSNEWS) - Roman Catholic bishops in Tanzania have condemned as unacceptable a new science syllabus for primary schools that incorporates the teaching of proper condom use. Introduction of the [teaching of] use o
AFRICA: Health Minister examines AIDS treatment hurdles: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 10 January (PLUSNEWS) - South African Health Minister Manto Tshabalala-Msimang is in Washington to find ways of increasing access to HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment and care. The minister was invited as a member of the UN Global Ste
ZIMBABWE: AIDS treatment plea at President's door: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 10 January (PLUSNEWS) - HIV-positive Zimbabweans and AIDS activists have taken their struggle for better treatment to President Robert Mugabe s doorstep. According to the daily Standard newspaper, this step followed a recent petiti
AFRICA: UN urges greater spending on AIDS and poverty battle: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 10 January (PLUSNEWS) - Millions of Africans could die from hunger and preventable illnesses if promises of funding are not kept in 2006, Jeffrey Sachs, the UN special adviser on poverty has warned. Speaking in
SOUTH AFRICA: Political expediency eroding govt HIV expertise - activists: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 10, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 10 January (PLUSNEWS) - Political expediency is eroding HIV expertise in the government, according to South African AIDS lobby group, Treatment Action Campaign (TAC). This follows the recent resignation of Dr Fareed Abdullah, head
NAMIBIA: Prison HIV prevention hindered by discriminating laws: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 9, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 9 January (PLUSNEWS) - A longstanding Namibian law condemning sex between men is hindering condom distribution and HIV prevention efforts in the country s prisons, AIDS activists have charged. Government officials have maintained t
UGANDA: Greater AIDS effort urged by US official: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 9, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 9 January (PLUSNEWS) - US Congressman Chris Smith has called for greater commitment to the global fight against HIV/AIDS, Uganda s Daily Monitor newspaper reported. During a recent visit to the Bethlehem Medical Centre, an AIDS tre
ZAMBIA: US university study to examine AIDS treatment hurdles: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 9, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 9 January (PLUSNEWS) - Researchers from America s Michigan State University (MSU) are to examine the barriers faced by HIV-positive people accessing anti-AIDS treatment in Zambia . Gretchen Birbeck, the study s principal investigat
KENYA: Govt on track to exceed ARV provision target: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 6, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG , 6 January (PLUSNEWS) - About 140,000 Kenyans living with HIV/AIDS will be receiving anti-AIDS drugs by the end of 2006, the government has said. According to the local East African Standard newspaper, health minister Charity Ngilu
SWAZILAND: "Sewage sociology" finds condom use rising: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 5, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MANZINI, 5 January (PLUSNEWS) - Without a definitive survey it s hard to know the extent of condom use by Swazis, but one group claims to have proof that it s on the rise: the workers at Swaziland s newest sewage treatment plant. Condom use has
MALAWI: Steps considered to prevent forced child marriages: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 5, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 5 January (PLUSNEWS) - The growing number of cases of young girls being forced to marry much older men has compelled the Malawian government to consider raising the legal age of marriage from 15 to 18. According to the BBC World Se
SOUTH AFRICA: Sasco calls for ARVs on campus: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 5, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 5 January (PLUSNEWS) - The South African Students Congress (Sasco), a student activist group, on Wednesday called for universities to provide HIV-positive students with anti-AIDS treatment. The impact [of AIDS] on the national stud
MALAWI: Interview with WHO representative Dr Matshidiso Moeti: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 4, 2006; [ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] LILONGWE, 4 Jan 2006 (IRIN) - QUESTION: What is your general impression of the health system in Malawi ? ANSWER: The health system in Malawi is in a very dynamic process of improvement right now. But I know there are a number of challenges: the
MOZAMBIQUE: Steady progress as ARV rollout gathers momentum: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 4, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] MAPUTO, 4 January (PLUSNEWS) - When Maria (last name withheld), 35 years old and HIV-positive, reflects on the past year she gives an answer that a growing number of Mozambicans living with HIV/AIDS would probably echo. The year 2005 has been go
NIGERIA: Free anti-AIDS medication available in January: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 3, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 3 January (PLUSNEWS) - Nigeria is to start dispensing free antiretroviral (ARV) drugs to people living with HIV/AIDS in January 2006, the government announced last week. With about 3.5 million HIV-positive people, Nigeria has the w
ZIMBABWE: WHO '3 by 5' target missed: Integrated Regional Information Networks - January 3, 2006; [This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations] JOHANNESBURG, 3 January (PLUSNEWS) - Zimbabwe has failed to meet the World Health Organization (WHO) target of providing anti-AIDS drugs to at least 120,000 HIV-positive people by the end of 2005, local newspaper The Daily Mirror reported on Tue

This information is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.
©1980, 2006. AEGiS.