SA's position on HIV/AIDS

HIV/AIDS continues to be one of the concerning global epidemics world leaders are still grappling with.

The United Nations (UN) had last week (8-11 June 2021) held a High Level Meeting on HIV/AIDS. South Africa, represented by Deputy President (DP) David Mabuza, in his capacity as the DP and Chairperson of the multi-sectoral body, the South African National AIDS Council (SANAC), had reiterated to the world the country's support for the 2021 Political Declaration towards ending AIDS.  


South Africa affirmed that the protection of human rights of people living with HIV and other key and vulnerable populations, is paramount to enabling access to services and fighting stigma and discrimination.

"In order for the world to succeed in ending AIDS by 2030, we need to recognise and protect the rights of all key and vulnerable populations by involving people living with HIV and placing communities at the centre of our response," said Mabuza.

South Africa further advanced for a multi-sectoral response to the AIDS epidemic, one which was grounded on human rights principles and equal access. This included scaling up of economic empowerment of young women and girls, ensuring that they have access to sexual and reproductive health services as well. 

South Africa was through SANAC prioritising fast-tracking the development and implementation of the HIV/TB catch-up plans in each of its country’s provinces.
The efforts were aimed at preventing new HIV infections. 

South Africa has called on the global community to fully fund the AIDS response in line with the principle of Shared Responsibility and Global Solidarity.
"Developing countries require sustainable funding for strengthening health systems, pandemic preparedness and response, as well as Recovery Plans necessitated by COVID-19 setbacks" said Mabuza.

South Africa also continued to call for TRIPS flexibilities to enable local production of medical commodities, and encourage technology-sharing mechanisms to meet public health objectives.

The county accounts for 20 percent of the total global infections.

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