Press Release

OFID replenishes Special Grant Account for HIV/AIDS Operations

16/2007 June 13, 2007, Pörtschach, Carinthia, Austria,
Press inquiries:

The OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID) has announced the replenishment of its Special Grant Account for HIV/AIDS Operations. The US$15 million new allotment was approved by OFID’s highest policy-making body, the Ministerial Council, at its 28th Annual Session today.

The Special Account was established in June 2001 with initial resources of US$15 million and has subsequently been replenished three times. Today’s fresh allocation boosts the account to US$65 million. The resources represent OFID’s core contribution to the global battle against the HIV/AIDS pandemic and the institution’s commitment to helping achieve the UN Millennium Development Goals.

OFID is currently implementing projects and programs in all developing regions of the world, providing assistance to countries in Africa, Asia, the Pacific, the Caribbean, Latin America and the Middle East. OFID’s primary areas of intervention cover prevention and reduction of vulnerability, together with care and support to people living with the virus.

During the past five years, OFID has developed partnerships with 20 specialized leading agencies such as the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the International Labor Office, UNAIDS, UNESCO, UNICEF, the United Nations Development Fund, the United Nations Population Fund and the World Health Organization (WHO). A total of 85 countries are currently benefiting from these joint efforts.

HIV/AIDS continues to claim lives at an alarming rate, with devastating social and economic consequences. According to the 2006 Global Report prepared by UNAIDS and WHO, the number of people living with HIV has reached 40 million, with Africa remaining the global epicenter of the disease. The report predicts that an estimated US$22 billion will be needed in 2008 to provide adequate care and treatment.