The Global Fund stated that the program implemented in Sri Lanka this year to control HIV AIDS has reported a considerable progress. The Global Fund is annually spending a higher amount of money to control HIV AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria in Sri Lanka. A delegation led by Mrs. Blanca Gil Antunano, Fund Portfolio Manager, South East Asia recently met with Health Minister Rajitha Senarathne at the Ministry to inspect the Progress of this initiative.
It was revealed that there is a drop in the HIV AIDS prevalence in Sri Lanka in comparison to other South Asian countries. HIV infected prostitutes and males used for homosexual relations in the tourism industry have been identified as the main causes for the drastic situation. Accordingly, the GF agreed to provide monetary assistance, develop laboratory facilities, and inform the public. Further, it was discussed to launch an awareness program to eliminate Tuberculosis from Sri Lanka.
Mrs. Blanca was engaged in an inspection tour in the Northern, Eastern, and Southern provinces.