FHI/IMPACT Links Fight Against HIV/AIDS to Women’s Empowerment

JUNE 2007 — FHI/Egypt staff in Cairo addressed a group of African diplomats at the March 8 closing ceremonies for International Women's Day on the effect of HIV/AIDS on women. Their presentation centered on the role of women's empowerment in the fight against the pandemic: If women can insist on safe sex practices, they can protect themselves and limit the spread of HIV infection.

The presentation sparked vigorous debate at the gathering, which was organized by the staff of Burkina Faso's embassy in Cairo, in collaboration with the wives of African diplomats.

PHOTO: FHI/Egypt Country Director Cherif Soliman (left) and  the Ambassador of Burkina Faso to Egypt, Sophie Sow, listen to a fellow speaker at the closing ceremonies for International Women's Day in Cairo, Egypt. (FHI/Egypt)