Theme and objectives

Theme
The central theme of the 15th International Conference on AIDS and STIs in Africa is:

“Africa’s Response: Face the facts”

For more than two decades, the African continent has participated in the fight against AIDS and provided potential solutions to the numerous challenges posed by this epidemic.

However, even as the fight continues, it is important to stop and evaluate these many initiatives, in order to recognize their contributions, successes and ambitions, as well as to acknowledge their weaknesses and shortfalls. It is time to take stock of political commitments, unfulfilled promises and actions and practices employed in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

At ICASA 2008, International and African experts will evaluate the current state of the HIV and STI epidemics with regard to science, communities and leadership.

In addition, the conference will broach topics concerning other, equally important infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, malaria and hepatitis.
Conference Objectives
  1. Create an atmosphere conducive to information, exchange, experiences, and evaluation of the response to the epidemic in Africa.

  2. Aim for greater coherence in the design and implementation of AIDS programs by cultivating synergy among scientific, community, and leadership approaches.

  3. Heighten public awareness of the continuing impact of HIV/AIDS and STIs and the importance of international solidarity in the response.

  4. Promote universal access to prevention, care, and treatment of HIV/AIDS and STIs by reinforcing the engagement of leaders through concrete action that integrates decision-makers from the public and private sectors.

  5. Build an institutional memory by strengthening the SAA and follow-up to ICASA 2008.

CO-ORGANIZERS