Debre Berhan (December 1, 2007) - In solidarity with the rest of the world the battle cries against HIV and AIDS... "Time for action" "Show leadership in deeds" and "Be courageous, Be Careful" "A caring person knows his/her status - Get Tested" and many much more were shouted loud and clear on December 1 World AIDS Day in Debre Berhan, Ethiopia where thousands of people turned out for a rally to demonstrate their commitments to the fight against HIV and AIDS.
Debre Berhan, an old town known for its fierce emperors, hosted this year's national World AIDS Day. Close to 7,000 residents attended the rally held at the towns' center. Children, young adults, parents, teachers, health providers, associations of various kinds, religious leaders, and elderly people rallied in groups carrying placards. Dignitaries, parliamentarians, representatives of diplomatic missions and various institutions also attended the WAD commemoration.
Speaking at the rally, H.E. Mrs. Azeb Mesfin said, "Let's take the lead in encouraging those individuals who are not getting tested in fear of stigma and discrimination. Let teachers give their students knowledge to protect themselves. Let parents be good role models for their families and children. .... Let religious institutions lead the way in caring for those affected... Let political leaders at all levels create opportunities for their constituencies to discuss and together find solutions to alleviate poverty, and stop HIV/AIDS. Lets all take our responsibilities seriously."
According to the single point estimation of 2006 there are close to one million Ethiopians living with HIV/AIDS.
Contacts:
Wz. Selamawit Mamo
Media Liaison Officer
AIDS Resource Center
Tel: +251-11-5503584
Fax: +251-11-5503749
Email: SelamawitM@etharc.org
www.etharc.org