Press Release

Dedication of HIV/AIDS Counseling and Testing Center

U.S. Makes Possible New Center in Fight Against AIDS

Joseph LeBaron, Ambassador of the United States at Nouakchott, presided this afternoon with Mr. Saadna Ould Bahaide, Minister of Health and Social Affairs, at a ceremony to formally inaugurate the “STOP SIDA” HIV/AIDS Counseling and Testing Center.  This center will provide education, testing, and counseling services to the general public.  

Financed by the U.S. Embassy at a cost of more than 26 million ougiyas ($100,000), the project represents one of the largest of its kind ever undertaken by the Embassy.  The funds were used to furnish and equip the center and will provide operating funds for this vital service.  The center will be run by the Mauritanian NGO, “STOP SIDA.”

Nouakchott, April 18, 2006