UNAIDS calls on African nations to address gaps in HIV response

Accra, Dec 17,  – Ms Winnie Byanyima, Executive Director of UNAIDS, has called on African governments to identify and close existing gaps in their HIV responses in order to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, noting that more than nine million people on the continent still lack access to life-saving treatment.

She said the people most affected include children, adolescent girls and young women, as well as key populations, and stressed that the current level of unmet treatment need “is unacceptable.”

Ms Byanyima, who also serves as a United Nations Under-Secretary-General, made the remarks at a press briefing held alongside the 23rd International Conference on AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Infections in Africa (ICASA 2025).

She underscored the need for urgent action to eliminate prevention and treatment gaps, saying Africa stands “before enormous opportunities in innovation, technology and strong community systems,” but must ensure HIV responses are prioritised and adequately funded.

According to her, respect for human rights is central to effective HIV services.

“We must ensure communities are at the forefront of the response, and we must not relent until AIDS is ended as a public health threat by 2030,” she emphasised.

While acknowledging that some African countries have already reached the 95-95-95 UNAIDS targets ahead of schedule, Ms Byanyima said it remains vital to identify areas where progress is lagging.

She noted that certain groups, locations and particularly children continue to be left out of treatment services, while adolescent girls and young women account for a large share of new infections.

She stressed that tackling stigma, discrimination and other social barriers is essential to bridging those gaps in both prevention and treatment. “The tools, science, expertise and determination all exist to get this done,” she added.

Ms Byanyima urged countries yet to achieve the 95-95-95 benchmarks to elevate HIV on the political agenda, invest in human resources, and reinforce national commitment.

She cautioned that the progress achieved so far remains fragile and requires consistent investment supported by real budgetary allocations.

ICASA 2025, organised by the Society for AIDS in Africa, is being held from December 3 to 8 under the theme: “Africa in Action: Catalysing Integrated and Resilient Health Systems for Sustainable Responses to End HIV, Other Infectious Diseases, and Emerging Threats.”

Approximately 3,000 participants, including global health specialists, policymakers, researchers, community activists, development partners and leaders from 85 African countries, are attending the five-day meeting.

GHBUSS