Deputy Speaker, the possibility of getting Aids to zero took a step forward with a new antiretroviral drug recently, but shrinking donor funding and reports that less than half of those who need antiretroviral treatment are receiving it show us that there is no room for pride or complacency.
New infections continue to outpace the number of people starting treatment and, because of the prevalence of Aids in South Africa, we are expected to set a bold example by resolving to triple the number of people on antiretroviral medication by 2015.
The Treatment Action Campaign and Doctors Without Borders are calling on government to find ways to ensure robust funding for HIV in the wake of global shortages. Results of a study conducted by the Africa Centre for Health and Population Studies show that young people do not take the Aids message seriously and that condom use is still relatively low. They also reveal that, in general, people are in denial, believing their partner to be monogamous. It is common for people to stop using condoms after a few weeks of knowing each other.
The ACDP calls on the SA National Aids Council, Sanac, to place the issue of mass communication as a priority focus on the next national strategic plan on HIV/Aids, which is currently being formulated.
Circumcision trials have demonstrated that adult male circumcision does work to reduce the spread of HIV in African communities highly affected by the epidemic. Researchers say that results prove that this procedure will save lives and reduce the need for antiretroviral therapy.
The ACDP joins those calling for the roll-out of safe adult male circumcision to become a top priority in Southern and Eastern Africa. Thank you. [Applause.]