Ethiopian Review

Addis Ababa — The Ethiopian Interfaith Forum for Development Dialogue and Action (EIFDDA) said it is to launch five years HIV/AIDS prevention program that would benefit 20 million people across the nation.

Various religious leaders have reaffirmed their commitment to duly contribute their share in community mobilization against the disease.

Speaking at a consultative meeting deliberating on the action plan of the program here on Tuesday HIV/AIDS prevention program head with EIFDDA, Dr. Habitamu Woldeyes said the forum has secured 32 million USD from Global Fund for the execution of the program.

He said close 200,000 orphans would receive care and support services in Ethiopia during the reported period.

Director General to the National HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control Office, Dr. Betiru Tekele on his part said the role of religious leaders is indispensable in curbing the spread of HIV/AIDS.

Hence, religious leaders are expected to step up their effort towards containing the speared of the disease, he said.

He also lauds what has been done so far by the leaders in the fight against the epidemic.

EIFDDA is an alliance of faith based organizations in Ethiopia.

- ENA