In observance of World AIDS Day, UNFPA Sri Lanka joined forces with the National STD/AIDS Control Programme (NSACP) to host the annual awareness walk. The event, aimed at promoting education and tackling the stigma surrounding HIV, drew attention to the importance of collective action in combating the spread of HIV/AIDS and ensuring equitable healthcare access for all.
The walk, which took place in Colombo, was graced by the Honorable Prime Minister, Dr. Harini Amarasuriya. Her participation emphasised the need for continued collaboration among government bodies, healthcare providers, and civil society in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
The event featured participants from a wide range of organizations, including government ministries, health professionals and activists. Together, they marched through the streets, carrying banners, distributing informational materials, and voicing their support for improved healthcare systems and a society free from stigma.
UNFPA Sri Lanka's involvement in this event reflects its ongoing commitment to advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights, as well as its dedication to ending HIV transmission and ensuring that people living with HIV are supported and treated with dignity. The collaboration with NSACP serves as a crucial step towards raising awareness, strengthening community engagement, and fostering a deeper understanding of HIV/AIDS-related issues.
By supporting such initiatives, UNFPA Sri Lanka continues to promote the importance of education, prevention, and care for those impacted by HIV, and to encourage open dialogue to reduce stigma in communities across the nation.