Moroccan singer OUM appointed UNAIDS ambassador

SWITZERLAND— The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) has named celebrated Moroccan artist Oum El Ghaït Benessahraoui, known by her stage name OUM, as its National Goodwill Ambassador for Morocco.

This announcement was made at the Taragalte Festival, a cultural event held from November 1–3, 2024, in Mhamid El Ghizlane, whereby  OUM also plays the honoured role of the festival’s ‘Godmother’.

With her extensive influence and strong commitment to social change, OUM is expected to be a powerful force in UNAIDS’ efforts to combat HIV/AIDS in Morocco and the broader region.

In her new position, OUM will be at the forefront of efforts to promote HIV awareness, focusing on prevention education and tackling the stigma and discrimination faced by individuals living with HIV.

As Houssine El Rhilani, UNAIDS Country Director for Morocco, highlighted during the announcement, her appointment marks a significant step in advancing the fight against HIV in Morocco.

El Rhilani emphasized that OUM’s artistry and her longstanding commitment to social advocacy will be instrumental in strengthening UNAIDS’ messages of prevention, tolerance, and support for those affected by HIV.

OUM expressed a deep sense of responsibility and honor upon her appointment, stating that as an artist with a substantial platform, she has a unique opportunity to amplify the voices of those who often go unheard.

She emphasised her commitment to advocating for people living with or impacted by HIV, remarking that she must use her influence to bring attention to the realities they face.

OUM further pledged to be a dedicated ally in the ongoing fight against HIV in Morocco.

Morocco currently faces considerable challenges in its battle against HIV, with an estimated 23,000 people living with the virus.

To address this, the country’s National Integrated Strategic Plan for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, and STIs (2024-2030) outlines critical steps to boost prevention efforts, improve access to care, and support populations most affected by HIV.

OUM’s new role as ambassador is anticipated to be a cornerstone in advancing these initiatives.

A longstanding advocate for social causes, OUM has previously collaborated with various United Nations agencies.

Her advocacy work spans a wide range of platforms, including international conferences and initiatives supporting women’s rights and education.

Her appointment ceremony at the festival highlighted her dedication to raising HIV awareness.

 It featured speeches from notable figures such as local leaders from the Zagora region and representatives from Morocco’s Ministry of Health and Social Protection.

The Taragalte Festival itself provided a fitting backdrop for the ceremony, symbolizing the role of music and art in promoting peace, unity, and social change.

UNAIDS remains committed to its mission of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, and partnerships with influential figures like OUM are critical in moving closer to this goal.

Through her role as National Goodwill Ambassador, OUM is poised to not only increase awareness but also to inspire collective action to ensure that all those affected by HIV, regardless of their background, have access to essential care, respect, and support.