Zambia
Zambia had around 20 million inhabitants in 2022. 1.4 million of them are infected with the HIV virus an increase of 300000 compared to 2010. The picture is more favourable if we look at the number of new infections per year. This has fallen from 71000 in 2010 to 33000 in 2022. The number of new infections among children (0-14 years) fell even faster in percentage terms. From 12000 in 2010 to 4400 in 2022.
We can conclude two things: the HIV population is getting older and the availability of HIV medication is increasing. In 2022 93% of the HIV population was taking medication (1.3 million people) and medication compliance was high because the HIV virus became undetectable in 97% of this group. Only among young people (0-14 years) are the numbers lagging. (only 60%).
HIV related stigma remains an issue in Zambia. In 2023 the People Living with HIV Stigma Index found that one third of people with HIV had experienced stigma in the past year. This was even higher among key populations at 60–70%.
Zambia is very much on the right track towards beating the HIV epidemic but a high percentage of the population is infected and their life saving medication and healthcare depends for most part of international funding.
(Sources: AVERT and UNAIDS)
Doctors and Nurses
Although statistics are slowly moving in the right direction, United Nations figures for the HIV and AIDS epidemic in 2015 are still alarmingly high. The population of Zambia is 14 million. One and a half million of them are infected with HIV. And every year more than 20.000 people die of AIDS. The extent of this epidemic requires much from the doctors and nurses who are trying to turn the tide.
Are they optimistic or sombre? What opportunities do they see and what makes their work difficult? What does their working day entail? In Lusaka Atlas2018 met a number of truly special doctors and nurses, all gifted with a big heart. Watch the films and get to know them. It will inspire us all.
Dr. Lloyd B Mulenga
“I was born in Zambia and i’ve seen the need…. My plan is to stay here.”
Dr. Maria Melany
“We do have happy days. But if your patient of client is not adherent to the medication then the war is lost.”
Dr. Esmat
We followed dr Esmat for a full day with our camera.