Rwanda is showcasing resilience and innovation in the fight against HIV as it launches a six-month nationwide campaign to close remaining gaps in treatment and prevention. The effort coincides with World AIDS Day and comes amid global funding challenges.
The Ministry of Health reports that Rwanda has exceeded the global triple 95 HIV targets: 96% of people living with HIV know their status, 98% are on antiretroviral therapy (ART), and 98% of those on treatment have achieved viral suppression.
Health officials say that while the country has made major progress, adolescents and young people remain especially vulnerable.
“With over 95% treatment coverage and viral load suppression, we commit to addressing the remaining gaps, particularly among youths and adolescents,” said Dr. Gallican Nshogoza Rwibasira, division manager for HIV, STIs, viral hepatitis and other viral diseases at the Rwanda Biomedical Centre.
UNDP Resident Representative Fatmata Lovetta Sesay praised Rwanda’s achievements, noting that they came despite global funding cuts.
“Rwanda is a testament to determination, innovation, and strong leadership,” Sesay said. “The country has reduced HIV infections by more than 70% while ensuring that essential services are not disrupted.”
Rwanda has introduced innovative treatment approaches, including bi-monthly injectable ART, which supplements daily oral medication. Health officials are exploring even longer-acting injections that could last six months. Globally, Lenacapavir, a twice-yearly treatment, is being rolled out in other African countries, and Rwanda is among the first to adopt it for those most affected.
People living with HIV for more than 20 years credit these treatments with allowing them to live healthy, productive lives. One person, who requested anonymity, said consistent medication helped prevent HIV transmission to their children.
“I have been taking this medication for 20 years, and none of my children are infected,” they said. “We must respect and value this treatment because our present and future depend on it.”
Sylvie Muneza, chairperson of the Rwanda Network of People Living with HIV, led a moment of silence for those who have died from AIDS-related illnesses and emphasized the need to continue fighting stigma and ensuring sustainability.
Deputy Director General of RBC, Jeanne Umuhire, noted that rising infections among adolescents remain a concern. “We see threats in the increasing number of infections among adolescents. This will challenge us to do more,” she said, urging continued community engagement and adherence to treatment.
Rwanda has also successfully reduced mother-to-child HIV transmission. Ninety-nine percent of HIV-positive pregnant women are on ART, cutting transmission rates to below 2% since 2015.
Dr. Deo Mutambuka, executive secretary of the Rwanda Network of People Living with HIV, said that seeing people over 60 living with HIV illustrates the effectiveness of long-term treatment. He added that ongoing awareness campaigns are critical to reducing new infections among youth.
World AIDS Day 2025 is observed under the theme “Finding Solutions to End HIV.” According to UNAIDS, approximately 40 million people were living with HIV globally in 2024, highlighting the continued need for innovation and vigilance.
