By John Riaga I oukoriaga@gmail.com
Media for Environment, Science, Health and Agriculture (MESHA) Secretary, Aghan Daniel has lauded the AIDS Vaccine Advocacy Coalition (AVAC) for the mentorship in reporting health that has seen the association develop into a formidable network.
While addressing a group of African partners who specialize in advocating health rights, the MESHA lead noted that the vibrancy being experienced at the network has been made possible because of the values and support from AVAC.
The partners had gathered in Nairobi for a dinner in honour of the AVAC Executive Director Mitchell Warren in Nairobi.
The diners recognised the work of AVAC noting that the information and resources on the organisation’s website comes in handy in aiding the understanding of biomedical HIV research among others.
“Had it not been for AVAC, MESHA would probably never have joined the Coalition to Accelerate & Support Prevention Research (CASPR) partnership,” Aghan said in reference to its recent admission into the coalition as a media partner.
The Coalition to Accelerate and Support Prevention Research (CASPR) project focuses on developing and sustaining an Africa-centered network dedicated to accelerating biomedical HIV prevention research, and advancing equitable access to proven HIV prevention products.
Prof Elizabeth Bukusi from the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) captured the spirit of the moment with a moving call on all players to perform their roles, when there is an opportunity to make a difference.
She said, “Live an intentional life. We need to live intentionally. We think we have a lot of time, but we don’t know it. So, make use of that moment that you have.”
In his remarks Warren lauded the work done by AVAC partners over the years, remembering the early days when AIDS advocacy was not as it is today.
He further praised the partners for working trustfully and effectively to deliver on the promise. He assured them that AVAC values all partnerships and will endeavour to play their part as a partner in the fight against HIV.
