World Aids Day is set aside to commemorate the day and to enlightening the world about the toll it is taken on the fabric of society and how to prevent or support those who live with it.

As it was commemorated all over the World on 1st December, Gambia was not left behind with NAS behind it all. Brikama witnessed World AIDS Day commemoration attracting several school children, a large section of women, men and children, with dignitaries drawn from all corners. The programme took place at the Brikama Health Centre. Those concerned, like the Brikama Red Cross were seen in action as messages on theme were passed through. The programme started with a match past from Brikama Serrekunda Junction to the Brikama Health Centre.

This year’s theme is, “Leadership” keep the promise to stop AIDS.

In his welcome speech, Abdoul Badjie, Governor of Western Region, in his welcome speech said HIV/AIDS is a health crisis and a huge public health and development problems. HIV/AIDS are single most significant threat to the very survival of human kind.

He went on to say that it is evident that many youth are suffering from or have already died of such illness. The Western Region governor says, “More depressing, yet factual is that, about half of all people who acquire HIV become infected before turning 25 and die of AIDS before their 35th birthday, making HIV/AIDS the most urgent problem for all nations. He called for the collective and serious reflection on the devastating epidemic on World AIDS Day. The Gambia is said to be adequately dealing with AIDS as it is said to be adequately addressed in a host of policy documents.

He said that a staggering 95% of the global total, live in the developing countries. “As we mark World AIDS Day, we need to collectively and seriously reflect on this devastating epidemic. There is absolutely no room for complacency. Our biggest enemy is denial. It breeds in action and hampers the translation of prevention messages into practical actions geared towards preventing further spread of HIV/AIDS/STI”. He applauded those responsible for the formation of The Santa Yalla Support Society; as an association of people living with HIV/AIDS.

With more openness the association will be empowered to contribute significantly the control of HIV/AIDS.

He said government recognises their role and are represented at the National AIDS Council chaired by His Excellency the President.

Due to the opportunities that is growing, he said it is in that context therefore, that the theme of this year’s commemoration, “Leadership” keep the promise and stop AIDS, is relevant as it provides framework for reflection of our efforts at Global, Regional and Country levels. He said HIV/AIDS issues are adequately addressed in a host of policy documents.

He said the establishment of the multi sectoral National AIDS Council (NAC) chaired by H.E. The President located under his office and the launching of the Multi Million Dollar Gambia HIV/AIDS Rapid Response Project (HARRP) are clear manifestation of the high political will in this regard. Mr Badjie high political will in this regard. Mr Badjie underscored government’s effort in fighting AIDS.

Mr Bai Cham, the Deputy Director of NAS said the establishment of the AIDS Committee made the national response to have the grassroots participation of all. Mr Ceesay, a representative of People Living with HIV/AIDS reminded the gathering of the existence of HIV/AIDS. He thanked the infected people who bravely showed themselves publicly. He appealed to government for the provision of capacity building, urging people to go for voluntary counselling and testing in order to stop the spread of the disease.

The WHO representative, Dr. Neiville Chivutte spoke of the remarkable progress that has been witnessed for the past five years. He noted the acceleration towards HIV/AIDS testing and prevention of mother to child transmission still remaining low. The WHO estimated only 12% of adults know their HIV status. In 2005 only 11% received antiviral virus therapy. According to the WHO Representative, access to treatment and care increased significantly in the past four years in the African region from an average from 2% to 30% in 2007.

Malcolm Dohertie, acting WFP Representative and acting UN Co-ordinator, read a statement from the UN Secretary General, stated that AIDS is a social, human rights and economic issue targeting young adults who should be contributing to economic development and intellectual growth. He said HIV has remained the biggest challenge, as it is the reason why the epidemic continues to reck its devastation around the world. He applauded the individuals who live with HIV/AIDS that braved to shop up. I call for leadership among governments before understanding the epidemics so that resources would go where needed.

Sulayman Samba, Permanent Secretary said HIV is a global problem, which needs to be stood down.

He says, “Even though the HIV is low in the Gambia there is no room for complacency.” Red Cross acted drama on AIDS. Many dignitaries including, Professor Tumani Corrah and others. The message from the drama made an impact as it attracted a lot of attentions from the local people and invited guests.