HIV Infection, AIDS Deaths Have Reduced In Africa – WHO

World Health Organisation (WHO) has said about 21.3 million people in Africa are on antiretroviral treatment.

WHO regional director for Africa, Dr Matshidiso Moeti, disclosed this in a statement to mark World AIDS Day 2024.

She said despite having the highest HIV burden globally and comparatively fewer resources to fight the epidemic, the region had recorded remarkable reduction in the number of new infections and AIDS-related deaths.

“Remarkable reductions in the number of new HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths are being recorded, with the number of new HIV infections higher outside of sub-Saharan Africa for the first time in 2023.

“The WHO African region is also the leading region globally in advancements towards the achievements of the 95-95-95 UNAIDS HIV testing, treatment and viral suppression targets, aimed at closing gaps in treatment coverage and outcomes.

“Seven countries have already achieved the targets, with the overall rating for the region currently at 90-82-76. About 21.3 million people are now on antiretroviral treatment, raising their life expectancy,” she said.

Moeti called for protection of human rights, specifically ensuring that health care is available to everyone, without any discrimination, regardless of their HIV status, background, gender or where they live.

“Stigma and discrimination cannot be allowed to undermine the gains and impede our progress,” she stressed.