AHF reaches landmark to impact 2 million

’MATHATO SEBOKA

MASERU – The Aids Healthcare Foundation (AHF) has reached a remarkable milestone by impacting two million lives. This achievement is a testament to AHF’s unwavering commitment to improving the lives of those affected by HIV/AIDS, initially starting with only 200 patients in two countries in 2002.

According to a press statement released by AHF this week, the significant milestone underscores AHF’s dedication to combating the HIV/AIDS pandemic.

Since its inception in 1987, AHF has been at the forefront of the global fight against HIV/AIDS, delivering essential services, advocacy, and innovative solutions. Country Programme Manager, ‘Mapaballo ‘Mile, said this milestone is worthy of celebration.

“We started with only 200 patients in 2 countries in 2002; now we are proud to say we are responsible for the betterment of 2 million lives globally in over 47 countries and over 1 million patients in care within the African continent in 14 countries, one patient at a time. This is evidence of commitment, mixed with passion and hard work for all, making a difference on a daily basis. Together, we continue strong,” said ‘’Mile said in the release.

With clinics and facilities spanning Africa, Asia, America, and Europe, AHF continues to leverage innovative healthcare delivery models to expand its reach and impact. It reaches communities in need by providing comprehensive medical care, treatment, testing, prevention, and support services. AHF President Michael Weinstein reflected on this journey with pride.

“We never imagined that we would one day be serving 2 million lives. It is an honour and testament to the dedication and hard work of our staff, partners, and volunteers who tirelessly strive to make a difference in the lives of those affected by HIV/AIDS every day,” said Weinstein.

AHF Lesotho will commemorate this momentous achievement in its mission to provide cutting-edge medicine and advocacy, regardless of the ability to pay.

The celebration is a reflection of the organisation’s relentless pursuit of its mission to deliver quality healthcare to the most vulnerable populations. AHF Africa Bureau Chief Dr. Penninah Lutung reminisced about the early days.

“We began supporting 100 patients in both South Africa and Uganda in 2002, when it cost $5,000 per patient annually for ARVs. Today, more than half of AHF’s 2 million lives receiving care are in Africa. The combination of medicine and advocacy—implementing prevention, care, and treatment programmes and conducting impassioned campaigns against big pharma to lower drug prices — has allowed us to reach this momentous achievement collectively,” said Lutung said in the statement.

As AHF continues its fight against the HIV/AIDS pandemic, the organisation remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating for access to HIV treatment and care for everyone who needs it, holding big pharmaceutical companies and decision-makers accountable. The commemoration picnic will be held tomorrow at Maseru Club with its partners.