FORMER president of Fiji Ratu Epeli Nailatikau has been appointed the UNAIDS Regional Goodwill Ambassador for the Pacific the Joint UN Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS).
Jan Beagle, UNAIDS deputy executive director, Management and Governance said Fiji had important lessons to share in a number of areas including leadership, multisectorality, integration and partnership, that could benefit the region, and beyond, as they strive to reach the goal to end AIDS by 2030.
“His excellency Ratu Epeli Nailatikau has been at the forefront of these efforts, championing the HIV response and the meaningful inclusion of vulnerable populations,” said Ms Beagle.
“His excellency has been a steadfast advocate for the HIV response in the Pacific since the very beginning and thanks to his leadership and commitment many people are leading healthy and fulfilling lives,” she said.
Ratu Epeli also gave his assurances that he would do the job justice.
“I believe it is time to fast-track the HIV response and as UNAIDS Regional Goodwill Ambassador I will work tirelessly to end the AIDS epidemic not only in Fiji but throughout the Pacific. You can count on me,” said Ratu Epeli.
