VICTORIA, Seychelles — The HIV/AIDS Support Organisation (Haso) today celebrates its 30th anniversary of continuous work in educating and supporting the population of Seychelles on HIV/AIDS. To commemorate this milestone, the organisation hosted an exhibition at Orion Mall and a sensitisation programme in Market Street, Victoria.
Speaking on the ongoing challenges in the fight against HIV/AIDS in Seychelles, Justin Freminot, chairperson of Haso, said despite considerable advances in healthcare, the HIV/AIDS epidemic is still very much alive and continues to affect many people in the community. ‘In 2023, there were about 2,000 patients living with HIV/AIDS in Seychelles. Yet, the stigma surrounding the disease remains deeply entrenched in our society. Despite efforts to educate the public,’ he said.
Haso’s 30-year journey has seen the organisation evolve from a small volunteer group into one of the country’s most recognised civil society bodies in the public health space, working alongside the Ministry of Health and international partners to expand testing, treatment literacy and anti-stigma campaigns. The anniversary events are intended to remind the public that the disease remains a present reality and that the work of prevention and acceptance is far from complete.
