The UN has appointed Speciosa Wandira-Kazibwe as special envoy for HIV and AIDS in Africa.
Ugandan national Wandira-Kazibwe replaces Asha-Rose Migiro as the UN’s lead advocate to end HIV-related stigma, improve access to treatment and improve national public health systems.
Wandira-Kazibwe is current senior adviser to the president of Uganda on population and health and a chairperson of the board of directors of the Microfinance Support Centre.
She also has prior political experience, serving as vice president of Uganda from 1993 to 2004.
According to the UN, HIV cases in sub-Saharan Africa account for 69 per cent of all cases of HIV, although there has been significant progress in recent years.
There have been 32 per cent fewer AIDS-related deaths in 2011 than in 2005, and 33 per cent fewer new infections compared to 2001.
“I am honoured and very delighted to take on this new and challenging role in this crucial time of the AIDS response,” said Wandira-Kazibwe.
UNAIDS executive director Michel Sidibé said: “We look forward to working closely with such an experienced leader like Wandira-Kazibwe. I am convinced that her tireless effort and commitment will help make change happen across Africa.”