DFID funding for HIV/AIDS must support an effective response

News from the International HIV/AIDS Alliance

6 April 2005: for immediate release

The Department for International Development (DFID) has the right HIV/AIDS strategy in place to make a big impact on the epidemic globally, but needs to ensure that money is getting through to the most vulnerable people, the International HIV/AIDS Alliance (the Alliance) said today in response to a report by the UK Public Accounts Committee into DFID’s HIV/AIDS work.

Responding to recommendations in the committee’s report, Alvaro Bermejo, Executive Director of the Alliance said:

“With the publication of its HIV/AIDS strategy last year, DFID took the lead globally on responding to the epidemic. It has been unique in recognising the need to provide funding to lower prevalence countries where relatively low investment now can help avert new epidemics on the scale seen in many countries in sub-Saharan Africa.

“However, where there are lessons to be learned from this report are in the future implementation of their strategy. All donors, including DFID, need to ensure that their money is being spent effectively. There are examples of multi-lateral organisations doing ground-breaking work, such as the Global Fund, and these should continue to be supported. However, where institutions are proving to be less effective, alternative options must be considered. DFID, along with the US and French governments and UNAIDS have already started discussions to try and ensure the money they are spending on HIV/AIDS works better, and these efforts should be applauded.

“Crucially, more money needs to reach the most vulnerable people. The best way to do this is by funding community-based organisations and non-governmental organisations, which have already proven themselves to be effective in responding to HIV/AIDS at the local level.

“While this report raises some important issues, it is also important that we judge DFID’s performance once there has been time for implementation of the new strategy to take effect.”

Ends

Editor’s notes:

  1. For more information about the work of the International HIV/AIDS Alliance and to arrange interviews, please contact Simon Moore. T: 01273 718744. M: 07843 208017. E: smoore@aidsalliance.org
  2. The International HIV/AIDS Alliance has been supporting community action on AIDS in developing countries since 1993. It has worked with community organisations from over 40 developing countries, provided financial support to over 3,000 projects (implemented by over 2,000 community and faith-based groups), and channelled over USD 100 million to organisations across the world. Expenditure in 2004 alone was approximately USD 35 million.