Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2006. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
BBC News - October 31, 2006
Peter Biles, Johannesburg
In the past, the government has been heavily criticised for sending out a confused message on the best way to combat the pandemic.
But the deputy president, who chairs the National Aids Council, says there is a renewed spirit of partnership.
More than five million people in South Africa are infected with the virus.
Under the leadership of Deputy President Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, the lead agency - the South African National Aids Council - has undergone restructuring.
"No-one wants government policy to change. We just want better co-ordination. That's what we're doing," she said.
The representatives of civil society who have been taking part in the process, now say they are all delighted with the government's commitment to fight HIV/Aids.
Sipho Mthathi from the Treatment Action Campaign lobby group, says there is a very big change happening.
"Because we have asked, and have been dying for greater political leadership in addressing the epidemic. We're beginning to see that," she said.
In recent years, President Thabo Mbeki's government has come under fire for its policy on Aids.
Health Minister Manto Tshabalala-Msimang has regularly emphasised nutrition - and the need for garlic, beetroot and potatoes, rather than the importance of anti-retroviral drugs.
061031
BB061012
Copyright © 2006 - BBC. Reproduction of this article (other than one copy for personal reference) must be cleared through the BBC.
AEGiS is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit, tax-exempt, educational corporation. AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted funding from Boehringer Ingelheim, Bridgestone/Firestone Charitable Trust, Elton John AIDS Foundation UK, the National Library of Medicine, AIDS Walk of Orange County, and donations from users like you.
Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 2006. 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, 2006. 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.
.