Born Free of HIV in West Africa

Thankfully, it appears that COVID-19 active cases in Mali continue to decline. As of Friday, July 31st, there have been a total of 2,522 reported cases in the country. This indicates an increase of less than 20 cases since 7 days prior. 

As with its other programs, GAIA VF continues to support its commitment to Born Free of HIV in West Africa. The Mother-To-Child Transmission Prevention (MTCTP) is just as vital as ever. It is critical to continue providing HIV testing, counseling, and treatment for pregnant women, as well as to provide them with the resources necessary to prevent transmitting the virus to their children. 

Furthermore, a recent report from UNAIDS suggests that globally, HIV care targets will not be met because of COVID-19. HIV and AIDS spending has decreased over the past few years. Coupled with diversion of resources toward COVID-19, this presents an issue for HIV funding. Additionally, UNAIDS has highlighted that even small disruptions in HIV treatment can have huge impacts. Therefore, it is essential to continue with PMTCT and do all that we can to fight HIV. 

The UNAIDS report also highlights that as it stands, HIV care is not equitable. Regions such as Sub-Saharan Africa hold a disproportionate number of active cases and new infections. We also know that young women and many other marginalized groups (LGBTQ people, sex workers) face disproportionate HIV risk. There is still so much work to be done for HIV treatment, and we must keep pushing forward. 

Your support at this time will go toward providing HIV testing, counseling, and treatment if necessary. Thank you.