JUBA – An estimated 160,000 people in South Sudan are living with HIV, placing significant strain on families and communities, the U.S. Embassy revealed Monday. The disclosure came in a statement commemorating the 37th World AIDS Day, observed Dec. 1.
Since 2007, the U.S. has provided $367 million in HIV relief to South Sudan through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), according to the Embassy. This year alone, PEPFAR has allocated $42 million to support over 87% of the 63,000 South Sudanese currently receiving HIV treatment.
“We continue to engage and support civil society organizations as they advocate for people living with HIV, provide essential services, and promote social inclusion,” the statement read.
The Embassy called on South Sudan’s transitional government to prioritize health system improvements. Recommended measures include increased public revenue investment in healthcare facilities, worker training, and equitable access to quality care, aiming to achieve an AIDS-free South Sudan.
World AIDS Day, recognized annually, seeks to raise awareness of the global epidemic and honor the lives of those impacted by HIV/AIDS.
