POLOKWANE – In a groundbreaking meeting recently held in Nairobi, the Kenyan HIV Clinicians Society, in partnership with the South African Viral Care Society (SAVCS), led a crucial initiative to address the pressing HIV-related issues faced by various African regions, including South Africa.

Recognised as one of the most important HIV-focused gatherings in Africa, the event highlighted the urgency of a unified approach to combating the epidemic on the continent.

A local doctor, Dr Mabowa Makhomisane, representing SAVCS, presented a comprehensive plan for upcoming consultative meetings across African regions, including west and north Africa, as well as the urban and rural areas of Limpopo.

Makhomisane proposed that the new alliance prioritise the creation of policies tailored to the African context, launch educational programmes to inform communities, advocate for patient rights, mentor emerging leadership, train clinicians and healthcare workers, and facilitate essential research and development across the continent.

Dr Muhangwi Mulaudzi, managing director of SAVCS, spoke of the need for a cohesive organisation to offer guidance and advocacy on HIV matters across Africa. He pointed out that similar collaborative structures already exist in the US, Europe, and Asia, making it imperative for Africa to establish its own body to address the unique challenges faced on the continent.

“Africa remains the leading contributor to global HIV statistics, and without a concerted effort among African nations, the fight against HIV/aids would be severely hindered,” Mulaudzi said.

Dr Enoch Omonge, vice-chairperson of the Kenyan HIV Clinicians Society, echoed these concerns, noting the challenges arising from the lack of organised clinician societies in many African countries, which he said undermines effective response strategies. Omonge strongly advocated for the creation of a Pan-African HIV association, saying there is a need for a unified approach to influence policy changes and mobilise resources for a shared and progressive agenda aimed at eradicating HIV.

Professor Walter Jaoko, the current president of the Kenyan HIV Clinicians Society, expressed concern about the slow pace of HIV eradication efforts in Africa. He called for immediate action, suggesting that the momentum generated by the interest of multiple countries in joining the new alliance could enable rapid progress toward establishing the initiative.

The meeting concluded with the election of an interim committee tasked with setting up the administrative framework for the newly formed organisation.

“This is a significant step forward in the coordinated fight against HIV/aids across Africa, laying the groundwork for future collaborative efforts,” concluded Jaoko.