Press Releases

The “New Directions in HIV/AIDS” Workshop in Selebi Phikwe

September 25, 2007

BOTUSA, the American Embassy and MISA (Media Institute for Southern Africa) are reaching out to Botswana’s districts with a two-day seminar September 25-26, 2007,  featuring the latest interventions and research in critical areas like HIV/AIDS and TB prevention, treatment and capacity building.

The seminar, entitled “New Directions in HIV/AIDS”, will take place in Selebi Phikwe and its objectives include expanding public awareness of the continued impact and response to HIV/AIDS, highlighting recent successes in Botswana and providing an opportunity to share best practices and challenges.

The Deputy Chief of Mission at the American Embassy in Gaborone, Mr. Philip Drouin, will deliver the opening remarks. Also expected at the event are Members of Parliament representing Selibi Phikwe, local leadership, members of the District Multi-Sectoral AIDS Committee and members of the local media.

Included in the program are a diverse range of presenters from government, non-government and international organizations who will discuss topics including: the latest in HIV and TB prevention ( Life Skills Curriculum, Commercial Sex Workers Assessment, Male Circumcision and the TDF2 trial); counseling and testing (the Zebras Test for Life Campaign); treatment (rollout of ARVs to the districts); PMTCT (the Early Infant Diagnosis program); and capacity building (MISA’s work bringing HIV/AIDS policies to the workplace).

All members of the media are invited to cover and attend the workshop, which is taking place at the Bosele Hotel Conference Center in Selebi Phikwe starting at 8:00 a.m. both days.

Editors Note:

For further information on the “New Directions in HIV/AIDS” seminar, call BOTUSA communications officer Doug Johnson at Tel 3901696 Ext 212 or on 71565942 or Laona Segaetsho, Information Specialist, U.S. Embassy, at 3953982 Ext 5419.