First Class Disappointment

By the end of August, 2011, the National AIDS Secretariat (NAS,), the National AIDS Control Program (NACP) and the Network of HIV Positives (NETHIPS), summoned thirty-three people living with HIV, PLHIV from the four cardinal points of Sierra Leone to Freetown and trained them in peer counseling for ten blessed days at the Young Women Christian Association (YWCA) Hall at Brookfields.

After the rigorous training, the PLHIVs were awarded flamboyant certificates and promised fantastic jobs during an impressive closing ceremony graced by the NAS Director, Doctor Brima Kargbo.

However, we are totally disappointed by the sad fact that the PLHIVs have been woefully disappointed by the failure of NAS, NACP and NETHIPS to provide them the jobs they were promised since 2011. This medium is, therefore, calling on NAS, NACP and NETHIPS to explain why, after over fifteen months, the PLHIVs have still not received the jobs, what is the stumbling block?

We will never believe and accept any excuse bordering on financial constraints as we are fully aware of the millions of US Dollars donated to this country for HIV patients in particular and HIV activities in general, the most recent being the fabulous sum of $49 Million donated by Global Fund to support HIV activities in Sierra Leone.

If there is money to undertake all other HIV activities in Sierra Leone, why can’t there be money to gainfully employ PLHIVs who are the direct victims of the HIV/AIDS pandemic? If organizations dealing with HIV can afford to luxuriate in flashy and very expensive jeeps, why can’t they afford to employ thirty-three PLHIVs? Or may we be correct to suggest that NAS, NACP and NETHIPS just held the training to get some kickbacks?

We are demanding answers.

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