By Patrick L. Osewe, Lead Health Specialist for the Southern Africa region of the World Bank

While participating in a study of HIV spending efficiency in South Africa, I met a young HIV-positive mother who had just received the joyful news that her new-born daughter was healthy and HIV-free. Wiping away tears of relief, she described the gratitude she felt for the antenatal clinic staff, who had helped start her on antiretroviral treatment (ART) and thanks to whom she now had the hope of a bright future for her daughter.

This encounter was just one among many similar incidents during the study – and, as our preliminary data show, is representative of the positive impact of the Government’s strong commitment to bringing down rates of HIV. More...

By Prakash Tyagi* (India), International HIV/AIDS Alliance Key Correspondent

The International AIDS Conference is returning to the U.S. after 22 years. Undoubtedly, the interest levels will be high and the expectations will be huge for about 20,000 people attending the conference, and for the rest of the world!

Since AIDS 2010 in Vienna, a number of important developments have taken place. Close to three decades into the pandemic, there are signs of rolling back the huge toll of HIV. Prevention prospects have shown the glimmer of hope with the new discoveries such as the microbicide gel. Universal coverage of Anti Retroviral Treatment (ART) has improved significantly, including in a number of low- and middle-income countries. On the flipside, the funding scene has not been very encouraging. More...