Juddy Otti

The session reviewed progress towards the 95-95-95 targets, noting that some African countries are on track to meet them by 2025. The session showcased successful programs and discussed ongoing challenges, emphasizing the need for continued focus on key populations and discussed aims to refine target-setting before the 2026 AIDS meeting.

An acknowledgment of setbacks from the fundamentalist government however expressed confidence in meeting 2025 targets, emphasising addressing social determinants and setting new targets beyond 2025 to end HIV transmission without a cure or vaccine. Armenia highlighted commitment to ending AIDS despite military conflict and COVID-19 challenges, stating its HIV epidemic is concentrated among (MSM) and immigrants. Achievements include expanded HIV testing and efforts to eliminate mother-to-child transmission, despite significant obstacles from ongoing conflicts and displacements. Infectious disease physicians discussed importance of UNAIDS' 95-95-95 targets and progress made by various countries, emphasized Fast-Track Cities initiative, which helps cities leverage resources and collaboration to improve HIV testing and treatment, highlighting successes in Lilongwe, Jakarta, and Kampala. KNSDCC’s CEO addressed the challenges and progress in Kenya's HIV response. While Kenya achieved 95-95-95 targets overall, specific populations such as children and men lag, stressing the need to redefine targets and integrate mental health support to address inequities and ensure sustained treatment adherence. The session also featured a discussion on GTT. convened by UNAIDS to set new HIV targets for 2026-2030, debating the incorporation of vaccine and biomedical prevention strategies like PrEP and importance of presenting clear and accurate data to avoid masking treatment gaps.

In conclusion, the session underscored both the progress and ongoing challenges in the global HIV response. While some regions, like parts of Africa and Australia demonstrate promising results and effective initiatives, significant hurdles remain, particularly for vulnerable populations in conflict zones and low-resource settings. The discussions highlighted the critical need for new, realistic targets post-2025 and emphasized the importance of integrating mental health support and accurate data reporting. As the Global Task Team prepares for future target-setting, balancing ambition with practical, measurable goals will be essential to address existing disparities and sustain progress toward ending the HIV epidemic.