Discussion Highlights

• HIV and AIDS needs to be considered in the broader context of sexual and reproductive health and rights
• Discrimination stops people getting testing and accessing treatment, and fuels the spread of HIV and AIDS
• Funding needs to be directed to addressing intimate partner transmission, which is high in the region
• Food, security and poverty drive risky behaviour
• There are links between education and reduced risks
• Gender analysis and proper needs assessment is needed
• We need positive dialogue with faith-based organisations about condoms and contraception

Recommendations

That the alliance be representative of the region and include faith leaders, donors and private sector, community and government leaders and HIV positive groups

That the alliance:

• lobbies for increased investment in integrated sexual and reproductive health services and research
• promotes faith based leadership in supporting people living with HIV
• shares resources, expertise and good practices, promotes partnership and opportunities for training and networking
• engages in joint-advocacy
• collaborates to overcome stigma and discrimination and promote cultural change