Ambassador Yamamoto Visited MARCH CDC’s Program and the ARC

On February 11, 2008, Ambassador Yamamoto visited the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Modeling and Reinforcement to Combat HIV/AIDS (MARCH) program at the Ethiopian Federal Police as well as the AIDS Resource Center (ARC).

MARCH uses models of positive behaviors that reduce the risk of HIV infection through entertaining serial dramas. MARCH reinforces these positive behaviors through peer-to-peer activities that initiate discussion and dialogue around HIV prevention, treatment, stigma, and discrimination. CDC/Ethiopia is currently supporting an innovative program working with the military, the Federal Police and university students to prevent the spread of HIV among these high risk groups.

On the visit to the Federal Police, Ambassador Yamamoto witnessed peer group discussions on the third edition of the MARCH serial print drama.  “The American people are committed to helping fight the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Ethiopia,” remarked Ambassador Yamamoto, “and we wish to empower you to lead a secure and safe life.”  Through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, CDC has provided more than $2.4 million to local partners, such as the Federal Police Commission, to support the MARCH strategy for HIV prevention.

The Ambassador also visited the AIDS Resource Center and the ‘Wegen’ toll-free hotline. The AIDS Resource Center is a remarkable source of information, and includes a library, clearinghouse, virtual information center, radio diaries, the ‘Wegen’ AIDS Talkline, and a call center for health professionals.