Communities call for equitable access to HIV innovations ahead of Global Conference in Kigali
By : ABAWEDAWE Immaculee
With just a day before Rwanda hosts the 13th International AIDS Society Conference on HIV Science (IAS 2025), community leaders and advocates are sounding the alarm on the urgent need for equitable access to scientific advances in the HIV response.
At a national press event held on July 12 at Lemigo Hotel in Kigali, the Rwanda Network of People Living with HIV (RRP+) and the International AIDS Society (IAS) brought together people living with HIV, youth advocates, researchers, and health officials to ensure community perspectives are at the forefront of the global conference.
The event served as a rallying point for voices demanding that innovations such as long-acting HIV treatments like Lenacapavir reach the people who need them most.
“Science continues to advance, but we must ask ourselves: who benefits from these breakthroughs? Many in our communities still face stigma, stockouts, and poor access to care. Innovation without access is meaningless,” said Florence Riako Adam of the Global Network of People Living with HIV (GNP+).
Dr. Deo Mutabaruka, Executive Secretary of RRP+, emphasized the need for people centered science.
“ He said that Communities are experts in their own right. We must not wait for others to speak on our behalf. We know what works in our context and we must be included in shaping policies and research priorities”.
Youth advocates at the event also raised concerns about the continued exclusion of young people in research and implementation efforts.
“We’re not just beneficiaries. We are leaders. If global health is to succeed, it must be rooted in community-led innovation,” said Jero Plimo, Executive Director of IRO Kenya.
As IAS 2025 approaches, Rwanda is being recognized not only as host of the prestigious conference, but also as a model for inclusive and locally grounded HIV leadership. Participants agreed that for the conference to deliver real change, it must amplify the experiences and solutions of those living with and affected by HIV.
With over 630,000 lives lost to HIV-related illnesses globally in 2023, speakers reiterated that now is the time to ensure that science truly serves the people starting from the ground up.
