With the arrival of the New Year, the HIV/AIDS pandemic grows another year older. And it’s not clear what breakthroughs or developments 2003 might bring.
One of those actively involved in the fight against AIDS is Richard Burzynski, executive director of ICASO, the International Council of Aids Services Organizations. From Toronto, he spoke to VOA English to Africa reporter Joe De Capua about prospects for the New Year, including efforts by the “Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.”
Mr. Burzynski said the statistics get grimmer every year, and that affects food supply because when farmers get HIV, food production drops off. A good example of this is the situation in southern Africa. He said we need new ways to get resources out into the field.
Mr. Burzynski said those involved in the fight against AIDS ask themselves why there isn’t more support on the part of countries around the world, especially the rich countries, which must be persuaded to take a more active part. He said part of world security “is having people living and not dying from HIV.”
Click above links to hear full interview.