According to the Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC), approximately 3,200 new HIV infections occur annually in Rwanda, with 2,600 people succumbing to the virus each year. The most vulnerable groups include young people, sex workers, and men who have sex with men, with infection rates significantly higher in these populations.
HIV was first identified in Rwanda in 1983, spreading rapidly from 1986 onwards. The peak of infections occurred between 1988 and 1996. Today, while no cure or vaccine exists, antiretroviral therapy (ART) helps manage the virus.
Dr. Ikuzo Basile, the Head of the HIV Prevention Department at RBC, revealed that about 230,000 Rwandans are currently living with HIV. “When we analyze mortality rates, we estimate that around 2,600 people die from HIV-related illnesses annually. Among individuals aged 15 to 49, the prevalence rate stands at 2.7%,” he stated.
The data also show that 80% of HIV-positive children aged 0 to 14 are receiving treatment, a significant step in controlling the epidemic. However, the highest infection rates persist among sex workers and men who have sex with men. “About 35% of sex workers are HIV-positive, while among men who have sex with men, the infection rate is 5.8%,” Dr. Ikuzo explained. Shockingly, only 43% of this group know their HIV status.
Young people at high risk
Young people, particularly girls, are among the most affected groups. RBC reports that Kigali and the Eastern Province continue to have the highest rates of new infections. “Individuals aged 15 to 29 account for most new infections, with young girls being the majority. As they grow older, men become more affected, suggesting that older men are infecting younger women,” Dr. Ikuzo noted.
Recent testing in the Eastern Province revealed that 1.7% of young women aged 10 to 24 were HIV-positive, and 27% of them also had other sexually transmitted infections. This underscores the importance of using condoms, which prevent both HIV and unintended pregnancies. Unfortunately, many young people still do not get tested, with only 30% of youth in the Northern Province aware of their HIV status.
The Director General of Strive Foundation Rwanda (SFR), Muramira Bernard, has called on everyone to play a role in eradicating HIV, as young people continue to contract the virus.
He said, “Let us rise and work together to protect Rwandan children who are still getting infected with HIV. We must help the youth prevent infection and encourage them to get tested. Those who test positive should start treatment immediately because they are the leaders of tomorrow. That is why we must unite in raising awareness so that they understand that HIV is still a reality.”
Access to treatment and prevention
Rwanda has made significant progress in increasing access to HIV treatment. “Today, 97% of the 230,000 people living with HIV are on ART, surpassing the national target of 95%,” said Dr. Ikuzo. Over 600 health centers across the country provide free HIV treatment, ensuring accessibility for all. Additionally, male circumcision has proven effective in reducing HIV risk by 60%, yet only 56% of Rwandan men between 15 and 64 are circumcised.
Despite these achievements, challenges remain. “Many individuals unknowingly live with HIV and continue to spread the virus. About 70% of infected individuals are unaware of their status, which poses a significant public health concern,” Dr. Ikuzo emphasized.
To combat HIV/AIDS effectively, RBC continues to advocate for regular testing, early treatment, and safer sexual practices, urging all Rwandans to know their HIV status and take preventive measures. The fight against HIV/AIDS requires continuous education, awareness, and commitment from every sector of society.
Written by: Emma-Marie
