On Saturday December 1, over 200 Gambians and other international NGOs gathered at the Brikama health center to join the rest of the world in commemorating  World AIDS Day. This day is set aside annually in rememberance of those who have lost their lives to the AIDS virus and the threat it poses to the human population worldwide.

In his welcoming remarks, Abdou FM Badjie, governor of Western Region, called on people to close ranks in the fight against HIV/AIDS, adding that the fight requires the conjunction of individual, societal and govermental efforts.

Speaking at the commemorative ceremony, Bai Cham, deputy director of the National AIDS Secretariat, asserted that the AIDS pandemic has become the most serious threat in the world. According to him,  the fight against the macabre virus has taken giant steps in The Gambia since 1986. He also disclosed that the implementation of the HIV/AIDS Rapid Response Project, pioneered by President Jammeh's office, has immensely contributed to the reduction of AIDS in the Gambia.

He, however, emphasised that more challenges still lie ahead.

"In fact, 90% of Gambians affected by the AIDS virus are now enjoying speedy recovery," Cham revealed. Mr Cham then seized the opportunity to call on people to keep on taking preventive measures.

Dr Nesto Shivute, WHO Country Representative, called on world leaders to keep their promises in the crusade against HIV/AIDS adding that despite the efforts made in the prevention of AIDS, it is estimated that only 12% of adults know their HIV/AIDS status.

"In 2005, only 11% of pregnant women infected with AIDS received anti-retroviral treatment,'' he explained.


Dr Shivute further noted the negative impact that the disease has on the development of certain countries. He then urged people to desist from stigmatising people living with HIV/AIDS stating that they are also part of the society.

Other speakers included Malcolm Ducy, Representative of the United Nations Secretaty General and Lamin Ceesay who spoke on behalf of people living with HIV/AIDS. The ceremony was characterised by HIV/AIDS songs and the Gambia Red-Cross Brikama branch presented a drama on how people fall victim to AIDS.