Manhattan, New York, September 24, 2024 (SKNIS): The Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, delivered a powerful call for revitalized multilateral cooperation to combat the HIV/AIDS epidemic during a high-level side event at the 79th United Nations General Assembly. The event, hosted by UNAIDS, focused on the theme “Revitalized Multilateralism: Recommitting to Ending AIDS Together.”
In his remarks, Prime Minister Dr. Drew highlighted St. Kitts and Nevis’ commitment to the global fight against HIV/AIDS and shared key achievements of the country’s National HIV/AIDS programme. Notably, he emphasised the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and syphilis in 2017, a status which has been maintained since. He also emphasized the sustained availability of free medication for all residents living with HIV.
Addressing the gathering, which included leaders and representatives from around the world, Prime Minister Dr. Drew underscored the significance of early education and public outreach in the global response. He cited the robust screening programs and community-based initiatives that have been pivotal in St Kitts and Nevis’ success in combating the virus.
“Education is critical, and we believe it must start early,”rDr. Drew stated, referencing school programmes that actively engage children on sexual health and HIV/AIDS awareness. He also highlighted efforts to reach marginalised populations and engage them in the fight against HIV, ensuring that no sector of the population remains uneducated about the virus.
Prime Minister Dr. Drew stressed the importance of multilateralism in achieving global goals, such as ending the HIV/AIDS epidemic by 2030 as outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 3.3). He called on global stakeholders to redouble their efforts in scaling up interventions and strengthening partnerships.
The Prime Minister concluded his remarks by commending UNAIDS for its tireless work in the global AIDS response and reiterated St. Kitts and Nevis’ unwavering commitment to the cause.
The event also featured remarks from high-profile speakers, including Winnie Byanyima, Executive Director of UNAIDS; Ms. Amina Mohammed, UN Deputy Secretary-General; His Excellency William Ruto, President of Kenya; and Mr. Russell Dlamini, Prime Minister of Eswatini.
Prime Minister Dr. Drew’s participation in this high-level forum reinforces his government’s dedication to health and social security, as well as Saint Kitts and Nevis’ active role in global health initiatives.