HIV Long-Term Survivors Awareness Day

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Dear Friends and Champions,

On 5 June, we will observe a day dedicated to honouring and recognising the resilience of individuals like us, who have lived with HIV for many years. It’s a day to reflect on our journey, celebrate our strength, and remember those we’ve lost along the way.

As we commemorate this day here in Botswana, I want to address two crucial issues that impact all of us as long-term survivors. Firstly, we have observed a trend where the voices of PLHIV activists have become increasingly passive. It's time for us to change this narrative. We must mobilise ourselves to pressure for comprehensive policies that not only recognise us but also address the specific needs arising from long-term treatment and the emerging burden of NCDs.

Secondly, over 50% of PLHIV in care in Botswana are over the age of 40, highlighting the growing need for services that cater specifically to the challenges faced by ageing PLHIV. This statistic underscores the importance of our advocacy.

Furthermore, we need to reactivate conversations around the UNAIDS GIPA principle (Greater Involvement of People Living with HIV/AIDS). This principle is crucial as it empowers us, ensuring that our voices and experiences are central to the policies that affect our lives.

Additionally, our long-term living with HIV experiences can be utilised in many aspects of HIV programs in Botswana, including prevention using the U=U message, anti-stigma activities, HIV cure research, and informing mental health programs. Emphasizing the 95/95/95 global targets is also essential, aiming for 95% of people living with HIV to know their status, 95% of those diagnosed to be on treatment, and 95% of those on treatment to achieve viral suppression. In all these targets, PLHIV play a critical role, from advocacy and education to supporting adherence and maintaining community health initiatives.

The need for advocacy is as urgent now as it has ever been. We must reclaim our position at the advocacy table to ensure that our experiences and insights lead to better support and solutions. Let’s use this day to reignite our commitment to fight for our rights and well-being.

Together, we can make a difference. Let’s stand united for a future where every long-term survivor is recognised, supported, and included in every conversation about health and policy.

Kennedy Mupeli

https://x.com/KMupeli


Location: Botswana
Welcome to my blog dedicated to community engagement in HIV research. Here, we delve deep into the latest advancements and discussions surrounding HIV cure, treatment, prevention, and management of advanced HIV infection. My goal is to bridge the gap between complex scientific research and community understanding, ensuring that knowledge is accessible and actionable. Join me as I explore these critical topics, engage with community insights, and contribute to the ongoing fight against HIV.

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