Washington, DC, December 2001 (PAHO) - The PAHO/WHO Representative in Suriname, Dr. Carol Vlassoff, writes that the centennial celebrations in her country were launched recently. The events began with an AIDS Walk and aerobathon on December 1st, World AIDS Day and continued on the 2nd with a ceremony for invited guests that focused on healthy lifestyles. Dr. Vlassoff reports that, "two PAHO songs - one rap and one bubbling (rap to reggae music) - were presented by their youthful composers, [followed by] dance aerobics demonstrations and a mini-workout for the participants."

In Brazil, the centennial was launched on December 4, with a ceremony in Brasilia presided over by the Brazil's Foreign Minister, Ambassador Celso Lafer. Other attendees included representatives of the ministries of health, education and agriculture, the presidents of the three national health councils, and others from the health sector. Plans for commemorative and strategic events for the year were announced.

The PAHO/WHO Representative in Lima, Peru, Dr. Marie-Andree Diouf, informs us that the launch of centennial activities there will be on December 17 at their offices. The vice-minister of health, Dr. Fernando Carbone will preside and attendees will be from all sectors of the government and academia. The planned activities will be announced. Peru's First Lady will be involved in some events.

Related information:
      PAHO Headquarters Launches Centennial Celebration
      Pan American Health Organization Centennial Underway