Burkina Faso/Health: President Ibrahim TRAORE’s leadership in the fight against HIV/AIDS hailed

Burkina Faso has made significant strides in the fight against HIV/AIDS, earning recognition from international partners, including the United Nations Joint Programme on HIV/AIDS. These achievements stand out despite the country’s ongoing security and humanitarian challenges.

During the 21st Ordinary Session of the National Council for the Fight Against AIDS and STIs (CNLS/IST) held on December 19, Captain Martha Céleste Anderson Dekomwin Medah, Chief of Staff to the President, represented Burkina Faso’s leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré.

The session highlighted the country’s successes, particularly in the treatment of people living with HIV/AIDS.

UN representatives commended President Traoré’s leadership and the government’s unwavering commitment to combating the epidemic under challenging circumstances.

“Your efforts in this fight, despite the complex security and humanitarian context, elevate Burkina Faso’s standing on the regional and international stage,” said a UN official.

The country has stabilized its HIV prevalence rate at 0.6%, a feat attributed to increased access to antiretroviral (ARV) treatment and government-backed funding for HIV/AIDS-related expenses.

Currently, 86% of individuals aware of their HIV status are on ARV treatment, and 53% of them have achieved undetectable viral loads—a testament to the impact of free treatment and biological follow-up exams introduced by the government.

In his remarks, the Chief of Staff emphasized the importance of strengthening collaboration, enhancing prevention measures, expanding treatment access, and improving human rights for those living with HIV in Burkina Faso.

These initiatives underscore the government’s resolve to ensure an effective response to HIV/AIDS.

Cédric KABORE