Past events
Appointment and visit of the high representative for AAVP
In 2007 the AAVP Strategic Plan identified the need for a high level AAVP advocate "AAVP High Representative" to advocate for the AAVP and help in raising funds in and outside of Africa. In October Her Excellency Jeannette Kagamé, the first Lady of Rwanda, agreed to act as the AAVP High Representative and advocate for the programme in order to raise funds within and outside Africa.
On the 13th of March 2008, Her Excellency paid a visit to WHO's Geneva headquarters. She met with the heads of both WHO and UNAIDS. As High Representative, she will help the Programme reach a wider audience to inform, educate and advocate in favour of an AIDS vaccine for Africa. Her efforts will also help garner additional political and financial support. As the continent most affected by HIV/AIDS, it is critical that Africa is part of the process of HIV vaccine research and development so that a future vaccine is effective there.