Every year on December 1st World AIDS Day provides a global platform for people to unite against HIV & AIDS, stand in solidarity with those affected, remember those we've lost, and commit to combating HIV stigma. Despite significant progress, the battle against HIV & AIDS continues.

The theme for World AIDS Day 2023 is "Let Communities Lead." Communities living with, at risk of, or affected by HIV are at the forefront of progress in the response to HIV. Ending AIDS is possible with communities taking the lead in a united, informed proactive and empathetic manner.

World AIDS Day is a crucial health awareness day, offering an opportunity to educate people about the syndrome. Early treatment for HIV can significantly improve the quality of life for those living with the virus. It fosters open conversations, dispels myths, and contributes to building an aware and understanding society.

Let's commit to our year-round efforts to inform communities and encourage them to utilize the free and confidential HIV & AIDS prevention, testing, and treatment services available in these Islands.     

On this World AIDS Day, I urge all stakeholders to join hands with the A&N AIDS Control Society under the Department of Health Services in the ongoing fight against HIV & AIDS.

Admiral D K Joshi

PVSM, AVSM, YSM, NM, VSM (Retd.)

Lt. Governor, A & N Islands

& Vice-Chairman, Islands Development Agency