(MONROVIA, December 1, 2024) – The Ministry of Health (MOH) through its National AIDS Control Program in collaboration with Civil Society Organizations, Healthcare Providers, and International Partners, joined the global community in commemorating World AIDS Day 2024. This year’s observance was held under the theme, “Take the Right Spot: Advance Equity, End Stigma, Eliminate AIDS.” The event showed Liberia’s progress in combating HIV/AIDS while acknowledging existing challenges. Efforts have been made to expand HIV services to vulnerable populations, particularly men and children, who remain underrepresented. However, stigma and discrimination continue to hinder access to universal care. Dr. Cuallau Jabbeh Howe, Assistant Minister for Preventive Services, said that Liberia has achieved a 95% retention rate for individuals on antiretroviral therapy (ART). Currently, 27,722 individuals are receiving life-saving HIV/AIDS treatment.
Dr. Howe emphasized the importance of treatment adherence: “By taking your medicine, you can lead a normal life, sustain your family, and significantly reduce the risk of HIV transmission.” Dr. Cecelia J. Nuta, Chairperson of the National AIDS Commission, and Dr. Jonathan Flomo, Program Manager of the National AIDS Control Program, reiterated Liberia’s dedication to achieving the global 95-95-95 targets by 2030. The World Health Organization Representative, Dr. Moses K. Jeuronlon, stressed addressing the social determinants of health—poverty, inequality, and violence—to eliminate HIV/AIDS. Over 8,000 individuals have accessed pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), and plans are underway to introduce injectable PrEP in Liberia. Sensitization campaigns have reached more than 10,000 uniformed personnel, addressing a previously underserved population. Services to prevent mother-to-child HIV transmission are now widely available, ensuring healthier futures for the next generation.
USAID Mission Director, Jim Wright, stressed the U.S. government’s investments in Liberia’s HIV response. Since 2019, over $47 million has been provided under the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). Key achievements include a 68% increase in the number of people on ART, rising from 15,000 in 2019 to over 27,000 in 2024. Additionally, viral suppression rates have soared from 3,000 to 25,000 during the same period. Wright emphasized the importance of sustaining progress and reducing stigma: “HIV is now a treatable condition, like many others. We must collectively reduce stigma and discrimination to ensure that everyone has access to the care they need.” The Ministry of Health and its partners at the event reaffirm their commitment to advancing equitable, stigma-free, and life-saving HIV/AIDS services.