Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2007. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
The New York Times - August 22, 2007
Re "Firing an AIDS Fighter" (editorial, Aug. 14):
The fight against AIDS in South Africa has countless champions, starting with President Thabo Mbeki. Under his leadership, South Africa is implementing what has been acknowledged by the United Nations and others to be among the largest and most comprehensive AIDS prevention, care and treatment programs in the world.
So, contrary to your editorial, it makes no sense to say that "Mr. Mbeki has catastrophically failed to face up to his country's greatest challenge."
Former Deputy Health Minister Nozizwe Madlala-Routledge was simply enunciating the policy and commitment of President Mbeki's government when she promoted what you aptly describe as "an ambitious but attainable goal of cutting the number of new H.I.V. infections in half and treating 80 percent of people in need by 2011."
Those goals, and our government's determination to see that they are met or exceeded, are unaffected by the deputy minister's dismissal.
W. A. W. Nhlapo
Ambassador of South Africa
Washington, Aug. 14, 2007
070822
NYT070819
Copyright © 2007 - The New York Times Company. All Rights Reserved. All New York Times articles contained on the AEGiS web site are protected by United States copyright law and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, displayed, published or broadcast without the prior written permission of The New York Times Company. You may not alter or remove any trademark, copyright or other notice from copies of the content. However, you may download articles (one machine readable copy and one print copy per page) for your personal, noncommercial use only.
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Always watch for outdated information.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 2007. 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, 2007. 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. .