There is at the same time some basis for optimism. Over the past 20 years many governments, donor and NGOs have invested in programmes to halt the spread of AIDS. In Uganda, for example, strong political leadership, a recognition of the extent of the problem and the adoption of multi-sectoral response have contributed to decreasing the HIV prevalence rate from approximately 14% in the early 1990s to less than 7% last year. Ireland Aid has worked closely with the government, local communities and NGOs to tackle HIV/AIDS in Uganda. While progress to date has been very encouraging, much remains to be done and we will intensify our support over the next three years, providing more than €7 million until 2005.