Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

3-minute read
1 December 2024 | 11:11 CAT

Bhekisisa Health highlights the fight against HIV and the importance of solidarity in South Africa. (Image – AI generated)

South Africa continues to grapple with the heavy burden of HIV/AIDS as the world commemorates World AIDS Day. With an estimated 7.8 million people living with HIV, the country remains home to the highest number of infections globally. However, significant strides have been made in combating new infections. In an interview on Radio Islam International, Founder and editor-in-chief of the Bhekisisa Centre for Health Journalism, Mia Malan, said South Africa has seen a dramatic 75% reduction in daily new HIV infections since 2000. “Back then, we had around 1,500 new infections daily. Today, that number stands at approximately 400,” she said. Despite this progress, the decline in infection rates has plateaued, raising concerns about achieving further reductions.

Young women aged 15 to 24 are the group most at risk, accounting for 40% of new infections despite making up only 8% of the population. “This is alarming because these young women are our future leaders,” Malan emphasized. The introduction of anti-HIV medication has been pivotal in combating the epidemic. Free daily preventative pills are available at government clinics, but adherence remains a challenge for young women, who often struggle to maintain the daily regimen. A promising alternative is an injection, Lenacapavir, requiring administration only once every six months. In trials conducted in South Africa and Uganda, not a single participant contracted HIV. Efforts are underway to register the medication locally, but its high cost necessitates external donor funding.

Malan noted that global cooperation is critical in securing funding and resources for these innovations. She drew a comparison to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s policies, which she criticized for cutting funding to international health organizations, including those vital for HIV research and support. “When Trump defunded key health initiatives, it showed how global politics directly affects life-saving work in countries like ours,” she remarked.

Economic hardships and social pressures exacerbate the crisis. During droughts or floods—aggravated by climate change—individuals face food insecurity, mental health challenges, and reduced access to medication. Such stresses can lead to skipped doses or increased risky behaviours, including transactional sex. Community-level interventions, including better education about HIV prevention, access to contraceptives, and bolstered health services, are essential. Strengthening support systems to help individuals adhere to medication regimens is another critical focus.

Reflecting on lessons from past victories, Malan stressed the importance of unity among scientists, policymakers, and activists. “Twenty years ago, we reduced antiretroviral prices because everyone worked together. The same must happen for prevention strategies today,” she said. The fight against HIV in South Africa remains a collective effort, requiring renewed focus and sustained innovation to protect vulnerable populations and build a healthier future.

Listen to the full interview on The Early Morning Sunday Show with Muallimah Annisa Essack and Mia Malan, Founder and editor-in-chief of the Bhekisisa Centre for Health Journalism, here.