Our Story

Working Towards a Better Tomorrow

Addressing the challenges of today requires problem-solvers who bring different perspectives and are willing to take risks. Prevent AIDS Africa (PAA) emerged out of a pursuit to inspire and support African communities affected by HIV/AIDS, and a desire for actions to speak louder than words. Established in 2006, we’re an organization driven by progressive ideas, bold actions, and a strong foundation of support.

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PAA was originally founded as Cameroon America AIDS Alliance (CAAA) in September 2006 by a group of members and friends of Fourth Presbyterian Church in Chicago. We changed our name to “Prevent AIDS Africa” in 2015 to align with our mission to help all peoples of Africa.

Inspired by the vision of Dr. Francis Ntowe, a Cameroon native and Elder at Fourth Presbyterian Church, and Dr. Bernard Blaauw, an HIV/AIDS specialist at Rush University Medical Center, these Americans made a commitment to treat Africans affected by HIV/AIDS and help prevent the spread of the disease in Africa.

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Prevent AIDS Africa works with local partners in Africa to help stem the spread of HIV/AIDS and alleviate the physical and psychological devastation of the disease. Working in Cameroon since 2006, PAA is expanding our programs into other African countries. In June of 2018, we launched a series of educational conferences in Lesotho, Africa. Lesotho is severely affected by HIV/AIDS, with nearly 1 in 4 adults being infected. This is the second-highest prevalence rate in the world.

PAA helps individuals and organizations better understand and respond to the AIDS epidemic through prevention education, testing, treatment, counseling, and the promotion of healthy lifestyles. Seeking to be a beacon of light and hope, PAA is committed to operating a highly effective programmatic model that can be replicated throughout Africa in the battle against HIV/AIDS.