Embassy of the United States

speeches

Remarks by Ambassador Bullen at the Launching of the New Start Mobile VCT Unit

It is indeed a pleasure to be here today to launch the first New Start Mobile Counseling and Testing Unit, as we continue in our efforts to contain the HIV/AIDS pandemic. 

The need for Counselling and Testing has become increasingly imperative as infection rates continue to rise and countries recognize the need for their citizens to know their HIV status as an important prevention and intervention tool.  This Mobile unit will make counselling and testing services more accessible to Guyanese and will educate people on the benefits of knowing their status.  It will also enable those who are finding it difficult to access a VCT site to have a service that is accessible, convenient and affordable.  I do believe that if a greater number of people know their status then this is likely to contribute towards normalizing HIV as a medical condition and thereby break down stigma and discrimination.  Knowing your status and living your life in accordance with it, is a very important first step in the fight against HIV and AIDS.

Whether your test produces a negative or positive reading, your Government, has developed a comprehensive plan to give treatment to those infected, by providing free antiretroviral (ARV) therapy.  The earlier the disease is detected, the earlier one can be placed on ARV therapy so that he or she can live longer, healthier lives and prevent transmission to others.

Guyana is however not alone in this effort.  The U.S. Government, through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is a committed and steadfast partner in this country’s war against HIV and AIDS.  Through the collaborative efforts of the Government of Guyana and USAID, we are providing assistance and support for important programs, including Voluntary Counselling and Testing services, such as this one.  Last Tuesday, we launched the fifth VCT site at Parika.  We also have sites in Georgetown, Linden and on the Corentyne.  In the coming months we will commit more money and support more programs to reach the goals set out under the President Bush’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief.  It is our goal, that by 2008, we will have provided resources that treated 3,500 persons; prevented 15,000 new infections; and provided care and support to 13,200 persons, with a particular focus on orphans and vulnerable children. Services that will be provided by the New Start Voluntary Counselling and Testing facilities are integral to accomplishing these goals and your commitment is invaluable.

I would therefore like to encourage Guyanese to make full use of this service and learn your HIV status.  Governments cannot do it alone.  You must play your part by taking responsibility for your actions and make positive healthy choices.  I believe that together we can make a difference.

Thank You.