Uganda, Senegal and Thailand demonstrate that. Uganda reduced the prevalence of HIV from 14 percent to 8 percent. Thailand began AIDS prevention programs in the late 1980s and is sustaining a steady decline in its infection rate. We have the tools to combat HIV if only we would choose to use them. The first tool is political leadership.
Politicians view it as a scary topic.
With rare exception, politicians have and continue to avoid the AIDS dilemma until crisis is reached. When community and political leaders champion the fight results are dramatic. Political leadership legitimizes action, channels resources and holds the bureaucracy accountable. Failing infrastructures, poor education systems, a lack of economic opportunity and meager health care fuel the virus' spread. Simply put, alleviating poverty would make prevention easier.