World AIDS Day Event

Ambassador Garvelink Speaks at World AIDS Day Event

World AIDS Day was observed by Embassy Kinshasa on December 1, 2009 with an informative and entertaining program of activities.  The event began with remarks by Ambassador William J. Garvelink, followed by members of the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) team: PEPFAR Coordinator Heather Davis, Public Affairs Officer Katya Thomas, Alain Thsibambe representing the Department of Defense, Dr. Laurent Kapesa representing USAID, and Dr. Hippolite Sadiki representing the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).  A person living with HIV spoke on the daily challenges she faces and how she maintains a positive attitude, and Isabelle Kasongo, an educational outreach speaker, answered questions from the audience.  A compilation of the first season of the PEPFAR-funded serial television drama Rien que la Verite (which focuses on themes associated with HIV/AIDS prevention) was shown, followed by a special appearance by famed Congolese musician Jean Goubald, who sang many of his hits, including “Disons Stop au SIDA,” from the Rien que la Verite music CD. The event was organized by Public Diplomacy, Human Resources, PEPFAR, and the Rien que la Verite staff.