“81,000 People are Currently Living With HIV in Sierra Leone” – Says Senior Advisor

In a recent media engagement held at the HIV/AIDS Secretariat in Freetown, Amara S. Lebbie, the Senior Technical Advisor for Human Rights and Key Population, revealed alarming statistics about the HIV/AIDS situation in Sierra Leone. 

According to Lebbie, more than 81,000 people are currently living with HIV in the country, with over 22,000 individuals not receiving treatment, posing a significant threat to public health.

During the event, which was supported by the Global Fund Against HIV, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, as well as the Consortium for the Advancement of Rights of Key Affected Population (CARKAP), Lebbie disclosed that 11.8% of female sex workers in Sierra Leone are HIV-positive. This figure indicates a higher prevalence rate among female sex workers compared to men and other key populations.

Highlighting data from the 2019 Sierra Leone Demography Survey, Lebbie emphasized that while the national adult prevalence rate is relatively low at 1.7%, it has nearly doubled over the past two decades. In 2002, the prevalence rate stood at 0.9%, signifying a concerning increase in HIV cases.

Various key population groups were also discussed during the engagement. Female sex workers represented the highest HIV prevalence rate at 11.8%, followed by men who have sex with men (3.4%), transgender individuals (5.2%), people who inject drugs (4.2%), and people in close settings (3.7%).

Lebbie stressed that the HIV status of these groups is higher than the national average, necessitating targeted services and interventions to control the epidemic among them.

To address the issue, Lebbie revealed the introduction of Self-Test Kits that allow individuals to test themselves for HIV. In terms of human rights, the HIV/AIDS Secretariat has developed a comprehensive strategy involving various stakeholders, including the judiciary, police, and Human Rights Commission, to ensure an enabling environment for people living with HIV.

Abdul Rahman Chernoh Sesay, the Director General of the National AIDS Secretariat (NAS), explained that the organization, established by an Act of Parliament in 2002, coordinates efforts to combat HIV/AIDS in Sierra Leone. NAS is committed to developing and implementing an effective strategic plan that encompasses prevention, treatment, care, and the protection of human rights.

Collaborating closely with CARKAP, which serves as the coordinating entity for the national HIV and AIDS response, NAS aims to bridge the gaps in the HIV/AIDS response and reach all affected populations. Through a public health approach, they strive to ensure that comprehensive services are available to everyone, leaving no one behind.

Director General Sesay encouraged individuals to prioritize HIV testing and treatment, emphasizing the collective responsibility to combat the epidemic for the betterment of Sierra Leone.