Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2003. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
Integrated Regional Information Networks - November 25, 2003
After adopting a policy document to scale up the kingdom's response to the pandemic last month, the cabinet also agreed to the establishment of an autonomous National AIDS Commission (NAC) to spearhead the initiative.
NAC will replace the existing Lesotho AIDS Programme Coordinating Authority (LAPCA), which has been criticised for its slow pace in implementing prevention and treatment programmes.
"It was felt that LAPCA did not have enough influence to ensure that programmes move forward. They have also been plagued by inadequate staffing and have not been able to effectively carry out their mandate," Mojakisane Mathaha, UN Development Programme (UNDP) social policy planner told IRIN.
The UN Theme Group on HIV/AIDS has been involved in the drafting of the new policy document: "Strategies for Scaling Up the National Response to the HIV/AIDS Pandemic in Lesotho: Turning a Crisis Into an Opportunity".
The report recommended that HIV/AIDS be placed at the core of each government department programme. "If we consider that our prevalence rate is now sitting at 35 [percent], government sectors now have to revolve around HIV/AIDS," Mathaha pointed out.
Although workplace policies and legislation had been put in place to protect the rights of HIV-positive people, "not much is happening on the ground" he added.
Stigma and discrimination were a major obstacle. According to Mathaha, one of the NAC's first campaigns would be the promotion of voluntary counselling and testing centres by senior government officials. "UNDP is in the process of developing Sesotho manuals for MPs to use when going out in the community," he said.
The rolling-out of NAC had been delayed due to "technical issues", LAPCA director of administration Mathoriso Monaheng, told IRIN. "We hope to have everything in place early next year," she said.
031125
IR031117
Copyright © 2003 - Integrated Regional Information Networks (IRIN). Reproduction of this article (other than one copy for personal reference) must be cleared through the Integrated Regional Information Network. .
AEGiS is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit, tax-exempt, educational corporation. AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted funding from Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, Elton John AIDS Foundation, the National Library of Medicine, Pacific Life Foundation and donations from users like you.
Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 2003. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.
AEGiS presents published material, reprinted with permission and neither endorses nor opposes any material. All information contained on this website, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only. It is often presented in summary or aggregate form. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professionals. Always discuss treatment options with a doctor who specializes in treating HIV.
Copyright ©1980 – 2003. AEGiS. All materials appearing on AEGiS are protected by copyright as a collective work or compilation under U.S. copyright and other laws and are the property of AEGiS, or the party credited as the provider of the content. .