LESOTHO: "Monumental crises" - HIV/AIDS and famine

HIV/AIDS is exacerbating food shortages in Lesotho, despite international aid over the past six months, a senior UN official ssaid on Thursday.

"It is clear, especially with the likelihood of another poor harvest and the astronomical HIV/AIDS level, that we have an enormous battle ahead," UN World Food Programme chief executive, James T. Morris said in a statement.

Morris said the gravity of the two "monumental crises" converging across southern Africa had prompted the addition of UN special envoy for HIV/AIDS in Africa, Stephen Lewis, to accompany him on his visit to the region.

"HIV/AIDS is destroying the lives and livelihoods of thousands of people across Lesotho and is threatening society as a whole," said Lewis.

Morris will also tour Zimbabwe, Zambia and Malawi in coming days.

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[This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations]