NAMIBIA: AIDS NGO applauds government drug plan

Namibia's AIDS Law Unit has welcomed a government plan for the local manufacture of HIV/AIDS drugs.

"The decision to produce generic HIV/AIDS drugs places Namibia in a position to provide essential, life-saving treatment to many for whom there seemed to be no hope," the AIDS Law Unit said in a statement.

Health Minister, Dr Libertina Amathila, announced earlier this week that the country's cabinet had given approval to manufacture affordable generic antiretrovirals.

The announcement followed discussions on Monday between the UN Special Envoy on HIV/AIDS in Africa, Stephen Lewis, and the cabinet.

Lewis' brief visit with the cabinet also focused on how to stem the spread of HIV/AIDS, and the money expected from Global AIDS Fund.

Theme (s): Care/Treatment - PlusNews, Children,

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