South Africa marked World AIDS Day 2025 on 1 December with a national event held at Masemola Stadium in Ga-Masemola, Sekhukhune District, Limpopo. The commemoration was led by Deputy President Paul Mashatile, who also chairs the South African National AIDS Council (SANAC). This year’s theme was “Renewed Efforts and Sustainable Commitments to End AIDS.”
Mashatile highlighted both progress and challenges in the country’s HIV response. South Africa continues to provide free antiretroviral treatment (ART) and has improved viral suppression rates. However, the nation is still dealing with a significant setback — over 1.1 million people who previously tested positive have dropped out of HIV treatment, often due to stigma, transport barriers, or inconsistent healthcare access.
To address this, government relaunched the “Close the Gap” campaign, which focuses on door-to-door engagement, community partnerships, and re-linking people who have defaulted on treatment.
A major announcement was also made that starting in 2026, South Africa plans to roll out Lenacapavir, a twice-yearly injectable HIV-prevention treatment.
The long-acting injection is expected to be a breakthrough especially for young people and those who struggle with daily pills.
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