The 16th Annual National HIV/TB/STI/VIRAL HEPATITIS Conference has officially commenced, attracting participants from nine African nations, including Zambia, Tanzania, Eswatini, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Malawi, Mozambique, Botswana, and Uganda.

The conference, organised by the Ministry of Health in partnership with the National AIDS Council, is being held under the theme: “Sustaining the 95-95-95 UNAIDS Targets While Revitalising Prevention of HIV and Other Co-Morbidities.”

This gathering addresses progress, challenges, and opportunities in combating HIV and related diseases.
Speaking at the conference, Dr Chipepo Kankasa, Programme Director of the HIV/AIDS Programme at Zambia’s University Teaching Hospital, welcomed delegates with an appeal for active engagement.

“This conference is crucial because it allows us to reflect on where we have been, where we are, and where we are headed. For those with questions, this is the time to participate and shape discussions,” said Dr. Kankasa.

Speaking at the same event, Ministry of Health Director of Infectious Diseases, Prof. Lloyd Mulenga, emphasised the importance of preventing new HIV infections and addressing co-morbidities.

Prof. Mulenga highlighted the conference’s evolution, noting that from initially solely focusing on HIV, it has expanded to encompass TB, viral hepatitis, and emerging health threats such as COVID-19.

“Our objectives include reviewing progress in combating these diseases, identifying critical barriers, and implementing specific actions to make health systems more resilient while ensuring sustainability,” said Dr. Mulenga.

Meanwhile, Comfort Mukobe, a representative from the Zambia Network of Young People Living with HIV (ZNYP+), underscored the need to involve marginalised communities and young people in decision-making processes.

The conference also observed a moment of silence in honour of the late Felix Mwenza, a respected HIV activist whose contributions have left an indelible mark on Zambia’s HIV response.