Tanzania on road to eradicate HIV/AIDS by 2030, health minister says

Mwalimu outlined the key factors contributing to Tanzania's projected success in combating the HIV/AIDS epidemic.

"Currently, 96 percent of Tanzanians living with the AIDS virus (HIV) know that they have an infection. 98% of people living with HIV are using drugs/ARV; In addition, 97 percent of people who use drugs have suppressed the AIDS threat. Our journey to eradicate AIDS by 2030 will be complete," said the health minister. 

Mwalimu emphasized that the journey towards eradicating AIDS by 2030 has been made possible due to several key factors. 

She cited the political will demonstrated by President Samia Suluhu,  saying access to resources for the fight against AIDS has been prioritised under her leadership.

The minister added that Tanzania has also been actively following the guidelines issued by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) in its quest to eliminate AIDS. 

Moreover, Tanzania has placed a strong emphasis on strengthening interventions to reduce the rate of new HIV infections, particularly among vulnerable populations.

Mwalimu reiterated the importance of targeted prevention programs and initiatives that address the specific needs of key populations.

She said regular and accurate data collection, analysis, and reporting have allowed the government to identify areas that require additional focus and allocate resources accordingly.

Mwalimu expressed her confidence in Tanzania's ability to achieve this milestone, thanks to the collective efforts of the government, healthcare professionals, and the general population.

She acknowledged that while challenges remain, the nation's determination and the progress made so far indicate a bright future in the fight against AIDS.