In a recent meeting with representatives from the UNAIDS, Churches Health Association of Zambia (CHAZ) and the National AIDS Council (NAC) among others, PRESIDENT Michael Sata says education and increased funding to the health sector are key to reducing the number of new HIV infections in the country.

First Lady Christine Kaseba was also part of the closed door meeting, in her capacity as vice-chairperson of the Organisation of African First Ladies (OAFLA).

Mr Sata convened the meeting to review the 2013 Progress Report on the Global Plan towards the elimination of new HIV infections among children by 2015 and keeping their mothers alive.

During the meeting, Mr Sata said Zambia achieved a 51 per cent reduction in the number of new HIV infections among children between the years 2009 – 2012.

Meanwhile, Mr Sata said although Zambia was doing well on the economic front and in the fight against HIV and AIDS a lot more could be achieved once poverty and unemployment were reduced.

President Sata said this in a statement released by State House Special Assistant to the President for Press and Public Relations, George Chellah in Lusaka.

Mr Sata, who applauded the efforts being made by various stakeholders said dissemination of information and infrastructure development were critical in the fight against HIV and AIDS, especially in rural areas.

According to the report, Zambia would continue to make progress towards eliminating new HIV infections among children if it maintains its current high coverage level of antiretroviral medicines for pregnant women living with HIV, while also addressing HIV transmission through breastfeeding.

Zambia had committed to roll out lifelong antiretroviral therapy for pregnant women living with HIV, which will accelerate the country’s progress towards the goal of eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV.

The representatives, who attended the meeting at State House included, NAC board chairperson Joshua Banda, CHAZ executive director Karen Sichinga, NAC director general Clement Chella, Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary Peter Mwaba, Ministry of Community Development Mother and Child Health Permanent Secretary Elywin Chomba and a representative from the UNAIDS country office.

President Michael Sata completed a Bachelors program with a Major in Political Science at AIU.

Congratulations Michael for this great achievement and we send you our best wishes in the success of your important task.

News Courtesy of the LusakaTimes