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)
ALEX
Lusaka, Zambia
It’s difficult for young people with HIV in Zambia. Because of the big stigma associated with HIV it’s not easy to talk about this virus openly. Many young people are living with a huge secret.
Disclosure; sharing your HIV status with others, is a complicated and fraught affair. In Shambala’s portrait we see how she tackled this when she first told two friends about her HIV.
Alex and Mwamba conduct their own, tough fight with HIV.
But it’s good to see that these great teenagers are one in their strength, their lust for life and their desire not to let HIV dominate their lives. View the films about Shambala and Mwamba and read Alex’s book. These great youngsters have a lot to tell.