African Health Officials Commit to Curbing HIV Infections on World AIDS Day

On World AIDS Day, African health officials pledged to enhance healthcare interventions aimed at reducing new HIV infections, aligning with the global theme “Take the rights path: My health, my right!”, Anadolu Agency reported yesterday.

Rwanda’s Health Minister, Sabin Nsanzimana, reported a 70% reduction in new infections and a 60% drop in AIDS-related deaths since 2010. However, nearly 10 new infections occur daily, primarily among young people aged 18 to 20, highlighting the need for better education and communication.

In Kenya, Cabinet Secretary for Health Deborah M. Barasa emphasized the role of men and boys in combating HIV, noting that 98% of adults living with HIV are receiving treatment, with a significant 83% reduction in new infections over the past decade. The country’s HIV prevalence stands at 3.3%.

Matshidiso Moeti, WHO’s regional director for Africa, stressed the importance of human rights in achieving universal HIV care. Seven African nations have met the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets, which aim to end HIV as a public health threat by 2030.

In Uganda, Health Minister Jane Ruth Aceng expressed concern over insufficient progress in reducing new infections, which threatens the nation’s goal to end AIDS by 2030, particularly amidst declining donor funding following the enactment of the Anti-Homosexuality law.