Dar es Salaam. The new US Ambassador to Tanzania, Dr Michael Anthony Battle paid a visit to the National Council of People Living with HIV in Tanzania (NACOPHA) on Thursday as part of his familiarization efforts. A statement, released on Thursday, said that being his first official visit to NACOPHA, Dr Battle sought to explore ways of supporting the organization in its mission to improve the lives of people living with HIV in Tanzania. According to the statement, during the visit, Dr Battle met with NACOPHA board members and staff.
NACOPHA’s CEO Mr Deogratias Rutatwa briefed Dr Battle about the organization’s programmes and operations. He also had an opportunity to interact with people living with HIV and learn about their experiences and challenges.
Speaking after the visit, Dr Battle expressed his admiration for the work being done by NACOPHA in providing care, support, and advocacy for people living with HIV in Tanzania. He also pledged the support of the US government in the fight against HIV/AIDS in the country.
“I am deeply impressed by the dedication and commitment of NACOPHA in improving the well-being and the lives of people living with HIV in Tanzania,” said Dr Battle, adding: “The US government is committed to supporting Tanzania’s efforts to 
combat HIV/AIDS, and we look forward to working closely with NACOPHA in this important mission.”
The board chairperson for NACOPHA, Ms Leticia Maurice thanked the US government’s continued support in the fight against HIV/AIDS in Tanzania. He also emphasized the need for more resources and partnerships to sustain NACOPHA’s programmes and services.
“We are honoured to have received Dr Battle and to have had the opportunity to showcase our work to him,” said Ms Leticia. “We are grateful for the US government’s support and look forward to working together to continue improving the lives of people living with HIV in Tanzania.”
NACOPHA is a non-governmental organization that was founded in 2003 to advocate for the rights and well-being of people living with HIV in Tanzania. (NACOPHA) is a nationally recognized organ responsible for coordinating efforts of PLHIV in the national response in Tanzania. It is the highest body and voice representing all organizations/groups and individual PLHIV in Tanzania.
