“As Mayor of Kingston, it is my pleasure to support and have our city participate in the Fast-Track Cities initiative.

A key component in reducing new HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths is reducing and eliminating the stigma and discrimination associated with getting tested for HIV and knowing your HIV status.

The most urbanized parishes in Jamaica have the greatest cumulative number of reported HIV cases. Therefore, as custodians of the well-being of the city of Kingston, the most urbanized city in Jamaica, we have a vested interest in the success of the Fast-Track Cities initiative.

Saber es poder or Knowledge is power. This is the approach I encourage people to take regarding their HIV status. Know your HIV status! Get tested for HIV! And be better able to prevent new HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths.

Kingston will, through this global network, improve the number of persons who are aware of their status and receive ARV treatment while simultaneously combatting stigma and discrimination through increased knowledge and awareness that we will obtain from this initiative.

It is my pleasure to partner with UNAIDS and IAPAC as we make a united effort to advance the welfare and healthcare of those who are affected by HIV around us.”