Vice President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Dr. Philip Mpango, has urged the Tanzania Commission for AIDS (TACAIDS), in collaboration with sectoral ministries, stakeholders, and the wider community, to focus on addressing environmental and behavioral factors contributing to the spread of HIV.
Speaking during the National World AIDS Day celebrations held at Majimaji Stadium in Songea, Ruvuma Region, Dr. Mpango called on young people to recognize their value, safeguard their lives, and protect themselves from new HIV infections. He highlighted that the rate of infection among youth remains concerning, particularly among young women, who are at higher risk of contracting HIV.
“New infections continue to be fueled by risky behaviors and environments, such as excessive alcohol consumption, casual sex, having multiple partners, and drug abuse,” Dr. Mpango said.
He also called on citizens to embrace educational messages from various campaigns aimed at changing harmful cultural practices and behaviors.
The Vice President emphasized the need to eliminate stigma against people living with HIV, which he said undermines the fight against the disease.
“Negative perceptions lead to discrimination, which discourages individuals from seeking necessary services. Stigma fosters fear, affecting voluntary testing and access to essential services such as counseling and ARVs for those living with HIV,” he stated.
Dr. Mpango acknowledged progress in the fight against HIV, noting that over the past four decades, significant achievements have been made. According to the 2022/23 HIV and AIDS indicators survey, new infections among adults aged 15 and above stand at 60,000 annually.
The national HIV prevalence rate is 4.4%, with 1,548,000 people living with the virus. The prevalence rate in Mainland Tanzania is 4.5%, while Zanzibar records a rate of 0.4%. Prevalence in Mainland regions ranges from 1.7% in Kigoma to 12.7% in Njombe, with Mbeya, Iringa, and Njombe having rates above 9%, twice the national average.
Dr. Mpango attributed these successes to strong collaboration between the government and various stakeholders, including the private sector.
“We thank the Global Fund, PEPFAR, and United Nations agencies for their continued support in implementing HIV and AIDS interventions in Tanzania,” he said.
During the event, 96 vehicles and 300 motorcycles valued at TZS 8 billion were handed over to local councils to strengthen vaccination services.
Dr. Mpango expressed gratitude to the Global Alliance for Vaccine and Initiatives (GAVI) for funding the vehicles, which will significantly improve vaccination services and protect children against preventable diseases.
Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa highlighted the government’s efforts to empower adolescent girls and young women economically and socially through the third phase of the 'TIMIZA MALENGO, project, implemented in 42 councils.
“This initiative aims to reduce their vulnerability to HIV infections and ensure their safety,” he explained. He also mentioned the 'DREAMS' project (Determined, Resilient, Empowered, AIDS-free, Mentored, and Safe), targeting adolescent girls and young women in 14 councils to curb new HIV infections.
Health Minister Jenista Mhagama reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to improving coordination of HIV response efforts. She announced the integration of sexually transmitted infections, hepatitis, and HIV programs into a comprehensive strategy to address these related health challenges effectively.
Leticia Morris, Chairperson of the National Council for People Living with HIV, called on Tanzanians to address barriers hindering the government’s efforts to combat HIV, including stigma and medication non-adherence. “The Council continues to enhance efforts to ensure that all special needs groups are reached with tailored services,” she said.
This year’s World AIDS Day theme, “Choose the Right Path, End AIDS,” emphasizes collective action in combating new infections, supporting those affected, and caring for orphans and children born with HIV.
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