43 years into the HIV epidemic: how far are we from ending it?

As we mark World AIDS Day and Universal Health Coverage Day, we reflect on a pressing challenge: the persistent HIV epidemic and its deep connection to inequitable access to care. In 2023 alone, 1.3 million people were newly infected with HIV, and 630,000 lives were lost to AIDS-related illnesses. Adolescent girls, young women, men, and key populations—such as sex workers, men who have sex with men, transgender people and those who inject drugs—continue to face barriers to care due to stigma, discrimination, and limited access to essential services.
 


At Jhpiego, we know the fight to end HIV and the drive to achieve universal health coverage (UHC) are inseparable. Inequities in health systems fuel the HIV epidemic, while the epidemic magnifies gaps in care. Tackling these intertwined challenges requires targeted solutions, innovative approaches, and strong partnerships to ensure no one is left behind.

At the heart of this mission are the health workers, community leaders, and innovators driving change. Through programs like Project Connect, DREAMS, and RISE, they are delivering bold solutions, integrating care into health systems, and expanding access to those who have historically been left behind. Below, we share their stories and explore how these efforts are transforming lives and advancing the vision of health for all.

Primary health care at the heart of Botswana’s HIV-free vision

Botswana has surpassed UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets and is reimagining health care with the USAID/PEPFAR-funded Project Connect, integrating HIV services into primary health care to address co-morbidities, reduce stigma, and build a holistic, HIV-free future. 

Private, convenient, and effective: tailoring HIV prevention with ePrEP

Through the RISE project, ePrEP is transforming HIV prevention by offering stigma-free, accessible solutions through pharmacies and digital platforms, reaching underserved groups and enabling them to actively manage their health and prevent infection.

EXPERT SPOTLIGHT

NEW THIS MONTH

The Standard | Why This Father Put His Daughters on HIV Prevention Medication
In Migori County, Kenya, where HIV prevalence is 14.7%, John Mbago enrolled his daughters on PrEP to protect them from HIV. Dr. Patricia Ong’wen from Jhpiego shares how expanding PrEP access through pharmacies is tackling stigma, improving privacy, and empowering families like John’s to embrace prevention. Read the full article.

Journal of Epidemiology and Global Health | Reaching Men Where They Are
A study co-authored by Jhpiego experts examines how Malawi’s Men’s Mobile Wellness Clinics brought free, workplace-based HIV testing to male employees. The article points out the importance of addressing key barriers, like stigma and communication gaps, and highlights the role of supervisors’ support in boosting uptake. Read the full article.

Video | Every Mile, Every Step: Bringing Health Care to Women Everywhere 
We are honored to celebrate the incredible individuals who walked, biked, danced, hiked, ran, cheered, and donated with one shared goal: delivering life-changing health care solutions to women and families, no matter where they are in the world. Watch the video.

RECENT AWARDS

Jhpiego is proud to share updates on the significant awards we have recently received, strengthening our mission to transform health care systems and save lives worldwide:

• The Gambia Malaria Elimination Activity
  USAID has awarded Jhpiego $13 million over five years to accelerate malaria elimination in The Gambia. We will establish a country office in Banjul and partner with ADWAC, CIAM, and ChildFund International to achieve a malaria-free future.
  
  
• Urban Health Activity in Uganda
  USAID has also awarded Jhpiego $44 million over five years to enhance urban health system resilience in Uganda. Collaborating with PSI, Youth Alive, Living Goods, Bulamu Healthcare, and the Uganda Healthcare Federation, we aim to improve health outcomes in urban communities.
  
  
• Merck (MSD) for Mothers Manyata 5.0
  Merck for Mothers has awarded Jhpiego $2.1 million over two and a half years for the fifth edition of their private sector support grant. The vision of the Scale, Saturate, Sustain, and Seed Healthcare Quality Initiative in Manyata 5.0 is to expand Manyata’s reach in the private health care system in India—with the aim of integrating Manyata’s approach and principles into district and state universal health care strategies—and to share valuable lessons with global audiences, especially across Asia.