The Ministry of Health in Rwanda has reported that approximately 2,600 people die from AIDS-related illnesses annually, while at least 3,200 new infections are recorded each year. This data was presented during the 13th International AIDS Society (IAS) Conference, currently taking place in Kigali from July 14 to July 17, 2025. The IAS Conference, which has brought together global health experts, researchers, and policymakers, has highlighted Rwanda’s ongoing fight against HIV/AIDS since the virus was first detected in the country in 1983. The situation escalated significantly in 1986, mark

The Ministry of Health in Rwanda has reported that approximately 2,600 people die from AIDS-related illnesses annually, while at least 3,200 new infections are recorded each year. This data was presented during the 13th International AIDS Society (IAS) Conference, currently taking place in Kigali from July 14 to July 17, 2025.

The IAS Conference, which has brought together global health experts, researchers, and policymakers, has highlighted Rwanda’s ongoing fight against HIV/AIDS since the virus was first detected in the country in 1983. The situation escalated significantly in 1986, marking a critical period in the country’s battle against the epidemic. Thanks to robust interventions by the Rwandan government, in collaboration with national and international health stakeholders, Rwanda has achieved significant progress in curbing the spread of HIV. According to the Ministry of Health, new infections have been reduced by 82%, while AIDS-related deaths have declined by 86% since national efforts began. One of the key insights shared during the conference is the adherence to antiretroviral treatment (ART) among different age groups. The Ministry revealed that young men aged 20 to 24 have the highest treatment adherence rate, with 88% following their medical prescriptions as required. However, a small portion, about 9%, fail to adhere to their medication, while the mortality rate among those aged 15 to 24 remains around 3%. Interestingly, individuals over the age of 50 demonstrate the highest adherence to medical prescriptions at a rate of 95%. Despite this, they also represent the group with a relatively higher mortality rate due to AIDS, underlining the need for age-specific interventions. Dr. Beatriz Grinsztejn, President of the International AIDS Society, emphasized the importance of multi-sectoral collaboration. “Nothing is impossible if governments, researchers, and international health organizations join hands. Together, we can end the AIDS epidemic,” she stated during her address. Rwanda’s Minister of Health, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, credited community involvement and public awareness campaigns as essential tools in combating the spread of the virus. He highlighted “recognition and responsibility” as key strategies that have empowered communities to play a role in the national fight against HIV/AIDS. Despite the progress made, the Ministry of Health acknowledged that challenges remain. However, there is renewed optimism that with continued collective effort from society, researchers, and policymakers, the goal of eliminating AIDS is within reach.

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