The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), says HIV/AIDS is a major problem for the world, but noted African countries are experiencing more problems in HIV/ AIDS and Lesotho being one of them

This was observed during a media press conference hosted by the Lesotho AIDS Programme Coordinating Authority (LAPCA) on Monday 22 July, 2002 . Briefing the media, the UNDP resident representative, Mrs Scolatsica Kimaryo, told the press that the infection rate for Lesotho is estimated at 31 per cent, adding that problem of AIDS pandemic in the country should be addressed with seriousness.

Speaking at the same occasion, the Chief Executive Officer for LAPCA, Dr. Mpolai Motete, indicated LAPCA and UNDP would involve the key actors from different public and private sectors to strengthen partnership for a dynamic national programme response to combat the HIV/AIDS pandemic in Lesotho.Dr Motete, said parties to be involved would include; organs of civil society, the media, traditional and religious leaders, the Maseru-based donors and Basotho in search of innovative ideas.

The LAPCA executive, also informed the press that the main issue, which was discussed at the 14^th World Aids Conference held in Barcelona, Spain on July 7 to 12 was to make available free access to life saving Anti Retroviral Treatment (ATR) for everyone living with HIV/AIDS around the globe.

Meanwhile, the inter-agency and multi-disciplinary Mission on HIV/AIDS in Lesotho, LAPCA and the government will discuss expertise and opportunity for broad consultations. The HIV/AIDS mission, which started on Monday and hosted by both the LAPCA and UNDP , would be expected to end on Friday 26 July, 2002.

22 July, 2002.