Health Minister calls for innovation to sustain HIV/AIDS gains amid rising challenges

The fight against HIV/AIDS in Eswatini stands at a critical crossroads as the nation confronts mounting challenges amid global shifts in health priorities and funding.

Minister for Health, Mduduzi Matsebula, emphasised the urgency of adapting strategies to sustain and build upon the country’s hard-won successes during the official launch of the build-up to the 2025 World AIDS Day commemoration.

“This year’s theme, ‘Overcoming Disruptions, Transforming the AIDS Response,’ comes at a time when the global and national HIV responses are facing significant challenges,”

Minister Matsebula stated, highlighting the complex landscape that includes “declining donor funding, rising new infections, and the increasing burden of non-communicable diseases among people living with HIV.”

These factors threaten to undermine progress, demanding a recalibration of efforts to maintain momentum.

Eswatini, however, remains a beacon of hope and resilience in the global fight against HIV/AIDS. The minister proudly noted that the country is “one of the few to have achieved the 95-95-95 global goals,” a testament to “strong political commitment,

effective partnerships, and the dedication of health workers and communities across the country.

” These goals, 95% of people living with HIV knowing their status, 95% of those diagnosed receiving sustained antiretroviral therapy, and 95% of those on treatment achieving viral suppression, reflect a comprehensive and effective response.

Despite these achievements, Minister Matsebula cautioned that “sustaining these gains requires us to think and act differently.” He urged stakeholders to “find innovative and sustainable ways to deliver HIV services,”

emphasising the need to “integrate them with other health priorities and emerging public health threats.” This integrated approach aims to ensure that “no one is left behind,” reinforcing the principle of inclusivity in health care delivery.