In a spirited observance of World AIDS Day 2024, the Ministry of Health (MOH), in collaboration with Civil Society Organizations, healthcare providers and international partners, celebrated Liberia’s strides in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
The event, themed “Take the Right Spot: Advance Equity, End Stigma, Eliminate AIDS,” spotlighted the nation’s progress while confronting ongoing challenges in achieving universal healthcare access.
The commemorative activities underscored efforts to improve equity in HIV services, particularly for vulnerable populations such as men and children.
Stigma and discrimination, however, continue to impede access to life-saving interventions.
Addressing participants, Dr. Cuallau Jabbeh Howe, Assistant Minister for Preventive Services, commended Liberia’s high retention rate for individuals on antiretroviral therapy (ART).
“Liberia has achieved a 95% retention rate for individuals on ART, ensuring a better quality of life and significantly reducing transmission risks,” Dr. Howe said.
She also highlighted the current enrollment of 27,722 individuals in ART programs, showcasing Liberia’s determination to leave no one behind.
The observance highlighted the collective efforts of the National AIDS Control Program and the National AIDS Commission.
Dr. Cecelia J. Nuta, Chairperson of the National AIDS Commission, and Dr. Jonathan Flomo, Program Manager of the National AIDS Control Program, reiterated Liberia’s commitment to achieving the global 95-95-95 targets by 2030.
This initiative seeks to ensure that 95% of people living with HIV know their status, 95% of those diagnosed receive sustained treatment, and 95% achieve viral suppression.
The World Health Organization (WHO) Representative, Dr. Moses K. Jeuronlon, emphasized the importance of addressing social determinants of health, such as poverty, inequality, and gender-based violence.
“Eliminating HIV/AIDS requires tackling the structural barriers that perpetuate vulnerability and reduce access to care,” he stated.
Liberia’s HIV prevention strategies have made remarkable advancements. Over 8,000 individuals have accessed pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to prevent HIV infection.
Plans to introduce injectable PrEP signify a progressive step in offering diverse prevention options.
Additionally, sensitization campaigns targeting uniformed personnel have reached over 10,000 individuals, ensuring coverage for a previously underserved demographic.
Preventing mother-to-child HIV transmission has also been a critical focus, with expanded services now widely available across the country. These efforts promise healthier futures for Liberia’s next generation.
Jim Wright, USAID Mission Director, underscored the United States government’s unwavering support for Liberia’s HIV response through the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). Since 2019, PEPFAR has invested over $47 million in Liberia.
“This funding has led to a 68% increase in ART enrollment, growing from 15,000 in 2019 to over 27,000 in 2024. Viral suppression rates have also soared from 3,000 to 25,000 during the same period,” Wright noted.
He encouraged continued progress and called for collective action to reduce stigma and discrimination.
“HIV is now a manageable condition, but stigma remains a significant barrier. Everyone deserves access to care without fear of judgment,” Wright added.
The Ministry of Health and its partners used the platform to reaffirm their dedication to equitable, stigma-free HIV/AIDS services.
Dr. Howe emphasized that treatment adherence allows individuals to lead normal lives and protect their families from infection.
The event also celebrated the resilience of healthcare providers, civil society groups, and international collaborators in combating the epidemic.
Their collective efforts have ensured the continued delivery of life-saving services, even in the face of challenges such as stigma and resource constraints.
As Liberia advances toward its 2030 targets, the commitment to innovation and inclusivity remains steadfast.
Plans for expanding injectable PrEP and further integrating prevention and treatment services highlight the forward-looking approach of the MOH and its partners.
World AIDS Day 2024 served as a powerful reminder of the work still required to end the epidemic.
By addressing inequality, breaking down stigma, and scaling up access to care, Liberia moves closer to eliminating HIV/AIDS as a public health threat.
A Call for Collective Action
The Ministry of Health called upon all sectors—government, civil society, and the private sector—to amplify efforts against stigma and discrimination.
By fostering inclusive environments and addressing social determinants, the nation can ensure no one is left behind in its fight against HIV/AIDS.
As Liberia commemorates its progress, it also reflects on the challenges that lie ahead.
World AIDS Day 2024 highlighted not only the successes but also the need for renewed commitment to ending the epidemic for good.
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