MEDIA ADVISORY
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January 15, 2013

The U.S. Mission to the AU, along with the AU Commission for Social Affairs and PEPFAR Ethiopia will host a joint press conference to unveil the “Partnership Quilt” at the AU Headquarters.

The U.S. Ambassador to the African Union Michael Battle, AU Commissioner for Social Affairs Dr. Mustapha Kaloko, and PEPFAR Ethiopia Coordinator Dr. Carmela Green-Abate will host a press conference on January 21 to discuss sustained advocacy and joint efforts to highlight the role of women in the fight against HIV/AIDS on the African Continent. Immediately following the press conference, the group will unveil a Partnership Quilt, which will be displayed at the AU Headquarters and Conference Center during the 20th AU Summit.

Working together for an AIDS-Free generation in Africa underscores the strong partnership among the various stakeholders in the fight against HIV/AIDS. In this fight against AIDS, addressing gender inequities is essential to reducing the risk, mitigating its impact, and increasing access to services for both men and women. The Partnership Quilt will be a way for stakeholders to express their vision, insight and commitment to these particular social issues in a unique and creative way.
What: Press Conference and Unveiling of the Partnership Quilt
When: Monday, January 21, 2013

Time: 11-12 pm, immediately following the PRC Opening Ceremony

Where: Addis Ababa, African Union Headquarters and New Conference Center, Briefing Room 1

Who: U.S. Ambassador to the AU, Michael Battle
AU Commissioner for Social Affairs, Dr. Mustapha Kaloko
PEPFAR Ethiopia Coordinator, Dr. Carmela Green-Abate
Head of AU Information and Communications, Mrs. Habiba Mejri-Cheikh
The Significance of the Partnership Quilt

A quilt is a coverlet type of material made by stitching layers of fabric, usually cotton, which has a long history in the west. The artistic expressions and individualism of each quilt are a powerful means that connects people with their roots, traditions, and causes they strongly believe in.

With this tradition in mind, the Partnership Quilt allowed stakeholders in the fight against HIV/AIDS and gender inequality to showcase their partnership and express their commitment to this cause in a creative way. Thirteen organizations from civil society, government offices, religious institutions, media, academic institutions, women’s associations and health care providers are represented in the quilt.