On 1 December 2016, UNAMID commemorated World AIDS Day under the theme “Hands up for HIV prevention." The event, which took place at the Mission’s Headquarters in El Fasher, North Darfur, was attended by UNAMID Joint Special Representative (JSR), Martin Uhomoibhi, and the Deputy Joint Special Representative (DJSR)-Protection, Bintou Keita, senior management and staff.

The colorful event included a procession, a cultural programme, a drama performance entitled “Hell No” performed by the Kenyan Military Police Drama group and a candle-lighting ceremony. Prizes were distributed to winners of the HIV/AIDS poster and slogan competition.

Addressing guests, JSR Uhomoibhi read the UN Secretary-General’s message for the Day which stated that real progress has been made in tackling the disease. “More people than ever are on treatment. Since 2010, the number of children infected through mother-to-child transmission has dropped by half. Fewer people die of AIDS-related causes each year. And people living with HIV are living longer lives,” stated UN Secretary General.

In his remarks, Joseph Gerardo Gernal, Chief HIV/AIDS Officer, stated that UN peacekeeping missions can make a positive difference towards achieving the set goal of ending AIDS by 2030, if they are “supportive of local responses to reach these targets,” and there is managerial commitment to a comprehensive and robust HIV-in-the-workplace programme within the United Nations system.

UNAMID organized similar World AIDS Day events across East, West, Central and South Darfur.