Zambia Marks World AIDS Day

Today is World AIDS Day when people around the world unite to show support for people living with HIV and to remember those who have died from AIDS-related illnesses. The day was founded in 1988 and this year’s theme is “Global solidarity, shared responsibility.”

While global attention is firmly focused on the COVID pandemic an estimated 2 million people are infected with HIV every year, many of these in Africa. According to international charity Avert 1.2 million people in Zambia were living with HIV as of 2018, resulting in 17,000 AIDS-related deaths. The HIV prevalence rate in adults (15-49) is estimated to stand at 11.3%.

Among those to reflect on the occasion were UPND leader Hakainde Hichilema, who earlier today shared a messaged with his followers across social media.

“World AIDS Day is important because we are reminded that HIV has not gone away. As the focus this year has moved to controlling the spread of COVID-19, which has ravaged the world, we are in danger of losing out on the progress made in the fight against HIV/AIDS in the last 32 years. This year’s theme reminds us that we will need to be resilient in order to combat two pandemics,” Hichilema writes.

“While we reflect on the loved ones we’ve lost to HIV and AIDS-related illnesses, let us remember the medical staff and organizations that care for people living with HIV. These healthcare workers have worked selflessly and tirelessly to continue providing vital services despite disruptions to services which have limited access to HIV prevention, testing and treatment,” he continued.

“Despite the progress made, HIV remains prevalent and disproportionately affects women and girls. A re-think in strategy is key as new innovative ways are devised to combat the two pandemics while ensuring that gains made against HIV are safeguarded,” HH concludes.