A landmark study examining HIV stigma and discrimination in South Africa is set to be launched on Tuesday, December 9, offering insights into persistent challenges and opportunities for positive change.

The HIV Stigma Index 2.0 draws on the experiences of more than 5 000 participants across all nine provinces, covering 18 urban and rural districts.

The research underscores the importance of community-driven initiatives and a multisectoral approach to tackling stigma and discrimination.

The launch, hosted at the National Research Foundation, will be led by the People Living with HIV sector under the National Association of People Living with HIV and Aids (NAPWA), in collaboration with the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), the South African National Aids Council (SANAC) and international partners.

Key stakeholders, including the Department of Health, civil society organisations, and people living with HIV, will attend to discuss the report’s findings and recommendations, which aim to inform policies and programmes to improve the lives of those affected.

During World Aids Day last week, Deputy President Paul Mashatile highlighted the introduction of lenacapavir, a revolutionary long-acting injectable HIV preventative treatment. The drug, which provides six months of protection with just two injections per year, empowers adolescent girls and protects key populations who face stigma and discrimination.

South Africa became the first country in Africa and the third globally to register lenacapavir, following regulatory readiness by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) in October.

The Deputy President called for bold action to confront HIV stigma, increased research funding, and improved access to treatment.

Government efforts focus on policies that enhance treatment access, retention, and re-engagement, particularly for vulnerable groups such as women, girls, people who use drugs, sex workers, and LGBTQIA+ individuals.