The United States-funded DREAMS programme marked its 10th anniversary with a celebratory event in Maseru on Tuesday. DREAMS, an acronym for Determined, Resilient, Empowered, AIDS-Free, Mentored, and Safe, is a multi-country initiative aimed at reducing new HIV infections in adolescent girls and young women. The programme, which spans 10 countries, has set an ambitious target to reduce new HIV infections in this demographic by 10 percent.
In his remarks at the event, U.S. Embassy Chargé d’affaires Mr. Thomas Haines noted the significance of the celebration, aligning it with the recent observance of World AIDS Day and the launch of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. “This celebration comes at an opportune time when the world just celebrated World AIDS Day, as well as the launch of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence,” Haines said, emphasizing the importance of these initiatives in promoting health and safety for vulnerable populations.
Mr. Haines further highlighted that programmes like DREAMS play a crucial role in the fight against HIV/AIDS, particularly in empowering young women and girls through education and mentorship. He pointed out that the innovative methods used by DREAMS to pass on knowledge and raise awareness are essential for achieving the goal of an HIV-free generation. “It is through such programmes that the world can attain HIV-free generations, as education is being passed in more creative ways,” he explained.
The DREAMS initiative has made notable strides over the past decade, providing resources, support, and education to young women and girls, helping them build resilience, access HIV prevention tools, and improve their overall health outcomes. By focusing on empowering women and girls in communities most affected by HIV, the programme continues to contribute to global efforts to end the AIDS epidemic.
As the programme enters its second decade, its ongoing impact is seen as vital to the continued fight against HIV, gender-based violence, and the broader pursuit of gender equality and public health.
