(Dodoma) – The prevalence of HIV continues to increase among certain groups in Tanzania, including long-distance truck drivers, miners, fishermen, and youth aged 15 to 24. Despite a reduction in the total number of people living with HIV, targeted interventions are being implemented by the government and partners to address the rising trend in these specific groups.
According to the 2022/23 HIV indicators survey, the number of people living with HIV in Tanzania has decreased from 1.7 million in 2016/17 to 1.5 million in 2022/23. The national HIV prevalence rate stands at 4.4%, down from 4.7% in 2016/17. However, certain high-risk groups still face challenges in reducing transmission rates.
On November 14, 2024, just ahead of World AIDS Day on December 1, 2024, the Acting Executive Director of the Tanzania Commission for AIDS (TACAIDS), Dr. Jerome Kamwela, highlighted the ongoing efforts to address HIV transmission in specific populations. These efforts focus on ensuring that services are easily accessible to the affected groups. Dr. Kamwela emphasized that youth aged 15 to 24 account for a third of new HIV infections. As a result, special programs targeting young people, such as those for adolescent girls and young women in 10 regions across the country, are ongoing.
Additionally, there are initiatives aimed at reaching fishermen and long-distance truck drivers, with services provided at roadside centers to ensure that these mobile populations have access to HIV prevention and treatment resources.
In her speech, Deputy Minister of State in the Office of the Prime Minister, responsible for Policy, Parliamentary Affairs, and Coordination, Ummy Nderiananga, acknowledged the progress made in the fight against HIV but also expressed concern over the continuing rise in infections within certain high-risk groups. She urged the public to adopt proper preventive measures and for those already living with HIV to adhere to their treatment regimens.
World AIDS Day 2024 will be commemorated in Ruvuma Region, with Vice President Dr. Philip Mpango serving as the guest of honor. From November 24 to December 1, 2024, voluntary HIV testing will be offered as part of the week-long commemoration activities. The event will also feature youth discussions, as well as dialogues with religious and traditional leaders, along with a national scientific conference on Tanzania’s HIV response.
Dr. Martin Odiit, the UNAIDS Country Director, commended the Tanzanian government for its strong commitment to ending AIDS. He emphasized the importance of protecting the rights of all individuals as a critical step toward achieving this goal.
Pastor Emmanuel Msinga, Vice-Chairperson of the National Council of People Living with HIV/AIDS (NACOPHA), urged Tanzanians to choose the correct preventive measures, undergo early HIV testing, and start Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) promptly. He stressed the importance of adhering to treatment and being good supporters for both individuals and their families.