Workshop revamps HIV/AIDS strategy in Yemen

A four-day workshop (11-14 June) commenced on June 11 at the National Population Council (NPC) which aimed to revise the strategy for combating HIV/AIDS in Yemen . The workshop is being held by the Yemeni Ministry of Public Health and Population in partnership with the UNFPA, the UNAIDS, and the NPC.

During the opening session, Alexander Ilyin, UNFPA Deputy Representative, presented a speech in which he underscored the timeliness of the workshop stating that it “coincides and contributes to the national [Yemeni] efforts in strengthening HIV/AIDS activities across the country.” Ilyin noted that it is the “right time” to take action and tackle the HIV/AIDS problem before it becomes “a national disaster” like in countries in sub-Saharan Africa and elsewhere.

Ilyin expressed the appreciation that the UN HIV/AIDS Theme Group—currently headed by Hans Obdeijn, UNFPA Representative—has for the national strategy development and implementation process on HIV/AIDS. In particular, he referenced the “dynamic and adjustable” nature of the enterprise.

Iris Semini, Regional Advisor for UNAIDS, recalled that Yemen was one of the few countries that has proposed a national strategy for the combat of HIV/AIDS. Many goals have not been realized so new commitments concerning the HIV/AIDS strategy should be prioritized, she said.

Amine Al-Ganad, NPC Secretary General, emphasized the necessity of reviewing the HIV/AIDS strategy after five-years passed since the last strategy was formulated. Since international support has increased, it has become necessary to review the strategy and revise it, Al-Ganad said.

Over the course of the workshop, working papers will be developed by participants from the Yemeni government and NGOs. The outcome of the workshop will be a two-year work plan that will layout priority areas that merit the most attention, as well as laying-out the procedural basis of all activities involving the combat of HIV/AIDS.

Patricipants, from left, Semini, Fawsia, Alex, and Al-Kohlani.

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