01/12/2025
WORLD AIDS DAY 2024
Theme: Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response
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Today, we join the global community in commemorating World AIDS Day — a reminder of the progress made, the challenges that persist, and the commitment required to end HIV/AIDS in Zambia.
Medical Licentiates across the country continue to stand at the frontline of this fight. In hospitals, health centres, and rural communities, they provide essential clinical leadership, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care for people living with HIV. Their role is especially vital in areas where disruptions in health services, drug supply, and community linkage threaten progress.
District HIV/TB Mentors, many of whom are Medical Licentiates, have been instrumental in transforming the AIDS response through:
✅ Strengthening adherence and viral load suppression
✅ Supporting prompt TB screening and integrated HIV/TB care
✅ Building capacity of frontline healthcare workers
✅ Ensuring early treatment initiation and retention in care
✅ Guiding facilities through data-driven decision making
✅ Supporting communities in combating stigma and misinformation
Their mentorship has helped districts remain resilient, even during times of disruption such as COVID-19, reduced funding, drug stock gaps, and workforce shortages. By empowering health facilities and improving quality of care, they ensure that no patient is left behind.
As ZMLPA, we remain committed to advancing a skilled, motivated workforce capable of transforming HIV prevention, treatment, and care in Zambia.
Together, we can overcome disruption.
Together, we can transform the AIDS response.
Together, we can end HIV/AIDS.