WFP, WHO Give Drugs, Food To AIDS Patients

By Charles ArikoTHE World Food Programme (WFP) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) have entered into a partnership to support people living with HIV/AIDS.The two UN agencies yesterday signed a US$1,779 (about sh3.2m) is to be spent on food and health care for people living with HIV/AIDS in five districts.The districts are Kampala, Kitgum, Pader, Gulu and Hoima. The three-year project titled, “WHO/WFP Collaboration for Improved Care of People Living with HIV/AIDS,” is to be implemented by the Ministry of Health, Italian NGO AVSI, and World Vision International. They will be supported by local AIDS support organisations.Ken Noah Davies, the WFP country director, and Oladapo Walker, the WHO country director, signed the agreement at the WFP offices in Kampala.Speaking after the signing of the agreement, Walker said, “This is a demonstration of love for fellow human beings to improve their lives.” Davies said food assistance to people living with HIV/AIDS was important for improving their health.“A healthy diet assists the patients live longer. Food is a critical care package for HIV/AIDS patients,” Davies said.He said Uganda was among four countries in east and southern Africa to benefit from the funding. The other countries are Rwanda, Tanzania and Mozambique.Ends