There is a need for strengthened HIV and AIDS awareness and sensitisation programmes, according to Deputy Programme Manager of the National AIDS Programme Secretariat (NAPS) Dr. Nicolette Boatswain, who says steps are being taken to address this gap.
Dr. Boatswain was yesterday asked whether Guyana has “dropped the ball” as it relates to its fight against HIV and AIDS as some in civil society have said that this has contributed to the stigma and discrimination faced by HIV positive persons.
“I recognise that there is a need for strengthening in terms of our sensitisation and awareness and this is one way in which we hope to remedy that… engaging the public. There has to be a resurgence of our interaction with fellow Guyanese [on] HIV information and always keeping you in the loop,” Dr. Boatswain told the media yesterday at NAPS’ Hadfield Street location.