Seven Nations Hit UNAIDS 95-95-95 Target, Leading HIV-Free Efforts
By Vincess Okushi
The World Health Organization (WHO) has lauded African nations for their giant strides in the fight against HIV/AIDS, recognizing seven countries for achieving the ambitious 95-95-95 UNAIDS targets: 95% of people living with HIV diagnosed, 95% receiving treatment, and 95% achieving viral suppression.
Speaking during the 2024 World AIDS Day commemoration, themed “Take the Rights Path: My Health, My Right!”, Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO’s Regional Director for Africa, celebrated these achievements while urging continued commitment to human rights and equitable healthcare access.
Africa is showing the world what leadership in HIV prevention and treatment looks lIke. Said Dr. Matshidiso Moeti
With an average regional progress of 90-82-76, over 21.3 million people are now benefiting from life-saving antiretroviral therapy. However, we cannot stop here. Shared responsibility and bold action are needed to achieve an HIV-free generation by 2030.
Dr Moeti highlighted Botswana and Namibia as shining examples, having reached “Path to Elimination” benchmarks for reducing mother-to-child transmission.
Noting that Botswana earned a silver-tier status, while Namibia secured bronze.
According to her, despite these advances, challenges persist.
Revealing that new HIV infections outside sub-Saharan Africa surpassed those within the region for the first time in 2023.
While emphasizing Africa’s stance as a global leader in innovative prevention strategies, including Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) in oral, injectable, and vaginal ring forms.
Dr. Moeti called for increased investments, policy reforms, and community-driven approaches to dismantle barriers such as stigma, discrimination, and unequal healthcare access.
Stigma and discrimination cannot be allowed to undermine the tremendous gains we’ve made. she said.
Healthcare must be inclusive, ensuring no one is left behind.
She acknowledged the role of communities in co-creating solutions, amplifying marginalized voices, and building integrated, person-centred health systems to combat not just HIV/AIDS but also other health challenges.
Protecting everyone’s right to health and reducing new infections will pave the way for an AIDS-free generation. This is not just a goal but a moral imperative.
WHO seeks united global partnerships, unwavering commitment to human rights, and sustained investments to eliminate HIV/AIDS by 2030, while transforming the vision into reality.
