As we start 2017, AJAN asks Jesuits and co-workers involved in AIDS ministry about what they see as the main hopes and challenges in the struggle against AIDS for the year. We put the same question to Florence Anam, a veteran advocate for the rights of people living with HIV in Kenya, and a long-time collaborator of AJAN.
We bring you their replies in this and the next issue of AJANews. You will find a fair balance of optimism and realism. While each one approaches the question from their own unique perspective, a few key insights stand out. First and foremost there is the need to develop ever more specialised responses for adolescents and youth, especially those living with HIV.
Further, many underline the importance of antiretroviral treatment (ART). At the same time, there is the crucial realisation that treatment alone is not enough to enable people living with HIV to not only survive but to thrive. A comprehensive response is needed, one that puts the continued struggle against stigma at the centre of our efforts. Doing all this in a scenario where AIDS programming faces lack of funding and sustainability issues, remains a constant challenge.
Read on…
Are we listening to what young people are telling us?
Pauline Wanjau, AHAPPY manager, AJAN House
Fr Elphège Quenum SJ, AJAN Director
Sr Mary Owens, Nyumbani, Kenya