I am a private investor based in the US with substantial shareholdings, in excess of $US 100,000, invested in a number of US and European pharmaceutical companies.

I am also the director of a small charitable foundation focused on global public health issues. I have spent time in Africa where I have seen first hand the impact of the global AIDS pandemic.

I understand the government of South Africa is currently contemplating a national HIV/AIDS treatment and prevention plan.

In formulating this plan I urge you include the provision of anti-retroviral drugs. And if necessary, in order to ensure the reliable cost effective supply of such drugs, I encourage you to make use of compulsory licenses and sourcing from generic manufacturers. Public health must take priority over investor profits.

I understand the gravity of the AIDS pandemic, and the resource constraints faced by the government in drafting its plan. At the same time South Africa has a unique opportunity to be the global leader in responding to the AIDS pandemic. I urge you seize this opportunity, and in so doing provide hope to South Africa, the entire continent, and the entire world.