World Bank Press Release - June 27, 2003

The HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control Project supports the Government of Trinidad and Tobago's strategy to curb the spread of new HIV infections and provide treatment and care for those living with HIV/AIDS or who are affected by the disease. Financing from the loan will support the Government's efforts to reduce the morbidity and mortality attributed to HIV/AIDS, increase the quality of life of people living with the disease, and strengthen the country's institutional capacity for managing HIV/AIDS prevention, surveillance, and monitoring activities.

"Reducing the transmission of HIV/AIDS and providing treatment and care for those affected by the disease is critical for securing the future of Trinidad and Tobago's social and economic welfare", said Caroline Anstey, the World Bank's Director for the Caribbean. "This loan supports the Government of Trinidad and Tobago's goal to expand access to HIV/AIDS prevention care and treatment for all citizens, especially those who are most vulnerable to acquiring the disease. "

To prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS, financing from the project will be used to promote safe sexual practices through an education and awareness communications program, distribute condoms, and expand access to HIV/AIDS testing and counseling services. In addition, the project will also support the country's Mother-to-Child Transmission (MTCT) program, and further safeguard blood bank and transfusion practices.

Financing from the loan will support antiretroviral treatment, home care, and nutritional services for people living with HIV/AIDS. The project will also include rights and legal protections of people living with HIV/AIDS by classifying the disease as a chronic and treatable condition. What's more, the reform of regulations governing confidentiality, notification, and access will improve practices governing detection, diagnosis and treatment of HIV/AIDS.

"Through project interventions, the incidence of HIV will be cut in half, the number of active HIV/AIDS cases will decrease by 10%, and the life of those living with the disease will be extended," said Patricio Marquez, the World Bank's Lead Health Specialist for Latin America and the Caribbean.

HIV prevalence in Trinidad and Tobago is currently estimated at 2.0-2.5% of the total population. The potential economic impact of HIV/AIDS including lost savings, investment, labor supply, employment, and a rise on health care expenditures could amount to 5% of Trinidad and Tobago's GDP by 2007.

Trinidad and Tobago is the sixth country to draw from the World Bank's $155 million Multi-Country HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control Adaptable Program Lending. Other countries participating in the MAP program include the Dominican Republic, Barbados, Jamaica, Grenada, and St. Kitts and Nevis.

This single-currency, fixed spread loan has a repayment period of 15 years, including 5 years of grace. The total project cost is $25 million.

Contacts: Lee Morrison (202) 458-8741, Lmorrison1@worldbank.org

Alejandra Viveros (202)-473-4306, Aviveros@worldbank.org

For more information about this project, please visit:

http://www4.worldbank.org/sprojects/Project.asp?pid=P075528

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