The latest 2023 HIV Epidemiological estimations indicate that Malawi has surpassed the UNAids viral load suppression at 95 percent target for 2030 representing 94:99:95 against the target of 95:95:95.
In 2014, UNAids set the goal of ending the Aids epidemic by 2030 through the achievement of 95 percent of people living with HIV knowing their HIV status; 95 percent of people who know their status on treatment; and 95 percent of people on treatment with suppressed viral loads.
According to UNAids website Malawi’s Population-based HIV Impact Assessments (PHIAs) were nationally representative, cross sectional surveys with a two-stage cluster sampling design.
“To evaluate progress achieved and highlight persisting gaps in HIV epidemic control in Malawi, we aimed to compare key indicators (prevalence, incidence, viral load suppression, and UNAids 95-95-95 targets) from the 2015−16 and 2020−21 Malawi Population-based HIV Impact Assessment (PHIA) survey results,” reads part of the information on the website.
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According to UNAids, through strategies and evidence-informed interventions implemented in the last half decade, especially scale-up of effective HIV treatment, Malawi has made tremendous progress.
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“Malawi has also decreased HIV prevalence and incidence and achieving both the second and third 95 targets ahead of 2030. To address the first 95, efforts in HIV diagnosis should focus on males and younger age groups. There is a continued need for effective linkage to care, retention on antiretroviral therapy, and adherence support to maintain and build on progress,” it reads.
National Community heath ambassador Maziko Matemba said the development shows that Malawi is committed to meeting the targets even before the set deadline.
Matemba, however, cautioned the general public to ensure they take all necessary measures to avoid contracting the disease and also adhere to the medication requirements in the event that they are living with the virus.
“Indeed, this is exciting news for Malawi that these targets are being met but these are being met because of good investment from donors and government in access to commodities and supplies.
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“The 94 percent on viral suppression means Malawi is on track towards meeting the UN targets but also containing the HIV pandemic by year 2030 but Malawians should not relax with these great successes since currently we don’t have cure to HIV,” he said.
In September, Malawi launched the implementation science for long-acting injectable Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP).
The intervention adds to the country’s comprehensive combination of prevention package for HIV.
