Sierra Leone has recorded strides in the fight against HIV and AIDS, recording a 73% reduction in AIDS-related deaths, according to the Director of Disease Prevention and Control, Dr. Sulaiman Lakoh.

Speaking at a Media Breakfast event held on November 29, 2025, in honor of World AIDS Day, Lakoh shared the encouraging news that the number of deaths due to AIDS had fallen dramatically from 4,000 annually to 1,084, a decline of over 2,900 deaths in just a few years.

Dr. Lakoh noted that this achievement was part of broader progress in the country’s HIV response. The national HIV prevalence currently stands at 1.7%, meaning that approximately 2 out of every 100 people are living with the virus.

In addition to the reduction in deaths, Sierra Leone has also seen a 43% drop in mother-to-child transmission of HIV between 2022 and 2025, a milestone Dr. Lakoh described as “highly encouraging.”

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“These figures show that progress is possible when science, policy, and community action work together,” Dr. Lakoh said. “But we must remain vigilant as the fight is far from over.”

Despite the significant progress, Dr. Lakoh highlighted ongoing challenges that could undermine further advancements. He pointed to limited funding, weak sample transport systems, and the persistent reluctance of many individuals to get tested for HIV as key barriers. Stigma and discrimination were identified as the greatest obstacles to continued progress.

“HIV medications are safe and effective,” Dr. Lakoh emphasized. “Treatment today is more straightforward than managing malaria, typhoid, or diabetes. What we need is for people to come forward, get tested, and embrace care without fear.”

The event, which was organized by the Ministry of Health, the National HIV & AIDS Secretariat (NAS), World Vision, and AHF Sierra Leone, also featured remarks from several key partners in the HIV response.

Mrs. Jane Kalweo, the UNAIDS Country Director, reminded the audience of the global context, noting that 40.8 million people worldwide are living with HIV, with 1.4 million of them in Africa alone. Kalweo stressed the importance of ensuring universal access to testing and treatment, regardless of an individual’s background or location.

“Quality access to testing and treatment should never depend on who you are or where you live,” Kalweo said.

Philippe Guiton, National Director of World Vision, called for a child-centered approach to the HIV response, urging stronger collaboration between government, communities, and development partners. He also emphasized the role of the media in spreading messages of hope and support.

“The media has a critical role to play in amplifying awareness and combating the stigma that surrounds HIV,” Guiton remarked.

Abdularahman Chernor Sesay, Director General of the National HIV & AIDS Secretariat, concluded the event by reaffirming Sierra Leone’s commitment to ending AIDS by 2030. He stressed that achieving this goal would require unity and continued collaboration among all sectors of society.

“Ending AIDS by 2030 is achievable, but only if we work together. The media must continue to amplify awareness so that messages reach every Sierra Leonean,” Sesay said.

While Sierra Leone has made measurable progress in reducing deaths, transmission rates, and HIV prevalence, experts acknowledge that significant challenges remain. Nevertheless, Dr. Lakoh’s optimistic outlook highlights that with continued partnerships and public engagement, Sierra Leone is better positioned than ever to achieve the global target of ending AIDS by 2030.