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Capitalism ‘holding back Aids treatment’

South Africa’s Communists (SACP) marked World Aids Day yesterday, pointing out that medicine is commoditised under capitalism and sold at exorbitant prices by private enterprise.

“Were this not the case the world would have long achieved a breakthrough in dealing with HIV and Aids,” said SACP second deputy general secretary Solly Mapaila.

He said that the UN “fast-track approach” which targets ending the epidemic by 2030 was a step in the right direction but long overdue.

Mr Mapaila said that the suffering suited the transnational corporations that dominate the world pharmaceutical industry.

“Today in South Africa we regrettably remember the dark days of HIV-Aids denialism,” he added.

“We are however celebrating the massive progress in the fight against HIV-Aids since the denialism was discarded.”

He pointed out that because of the ANC government policy of screening all women giving birth, the number of children born with HIV declined by 66 per cent between 2008 and 2011.

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