Progress is being made in HIV/AIDS response, but experts warn the battle is far from over.
The UNAIDS says West and Central Africa have recorded notable gains in recent years in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
At a Regional Dialogue on the AIDS Response, UNAIDS reported that in 2024:
81% of people living with HIV knew their status
76% were accessing antiretroviral therapy
70% had suppressed viral loads, reducing transmission
Since 2010, the region has seen a 55% drop in new infections and a 60% decline in AIDS-related deaths.
However, UNAIDS warns that the epidemic is far from over. In 2025 alone, HIV claimed 124,000 lives in the region, and new infections are still rising in at least five countries.
Susan Kasedde, UNAIDS Regional Director for West and Central Africa, stressed:
“Even as we celebrate progress, the job is not yet done.”
Challenges persist due to inequalities within and between countries, affecting regions, age groups, sexes, and populations most at risk. Leaders at the dialogue called for political will, strategic engagement, and protection of fundamental rights to accelerate progress toward ending AIDS by 2030.
The dialogue also aligns with the Global AIDS Strategy 2026–2031 and comes ahead of the UN High-Level Meeting on HIV/AIDS in June, which will mobilize renewed global commitment.
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