Community leadership at the forefront of the Global HIV Strategy for Africa’s future

A recent focus group discussed community leadership in Africa's HIV response. The meeting aimed to reshape the global approach to HIV. It emphasized the importance of local communities in fighting the epidemic.

The discussion centered on the Global HIV Strategy for 2026-2031. Participants sought to create an inclusive framework that prioritizes community involvement. Christoforos Mallouris from UNAIDS presented a vision for this new strategy.

Mallouris described the strategy as a multi-faceted guide. It should serve governments, civil society, and donors effectively. He stressed that it must address the needs of all stakeholders involved.

He called for a forward-thinking strategy that learns from past experiences. The strategy should also adapt to future challenges over the next decade. "We must use lessons from the past but remain innovative," he said.

The focus group advocated for an inclusive and participatory approach. Communities affected by HIV must be engaged in decision-making processes. The next phase of response should empower these communities directly.

The Four Pillars of Community Leadership

Community-led responses are crucial in addressing HIV effectively. Mallouris noted that community engagement has been vital since the beginning of the epidemic. Local communities need involvement at every decision-making level.

The focus group identified four key components of a community-led response:

1. Community-led Governance and Decision-Making: Local voices must shape strategies affecting them.

2. Community-led Advocacy: Communities should push for policy changes and better resources.

3. Community-led Monitoring and Research: Local data collection ensures relevance and evidence-based responses.

4. Community-led Service Delivery: Services must be accessible and culturally relevant to marginalized populations.

A New Roadmap for 2030

The discussion also proposed revising existing HIV targets down to 66 key goals, with 16 top-line goals for 2030. These include:

- A 90% reduction in new infections compared to 2010 levels.
- A continued annual decline of 5% after 2030.
- A 90% reduction in AIDS-related deaths from 2010 levels.
- Ensuring sustainability post-2030.
- Ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

As the new global HIV strategy develops, community leadership is essential. With local leaders at the forefront, this effort aims for inclusivity and sustainability in responding to HIV.

Mallouris stated, "The strategy must speak to everyone." It should promote participation and interaction beyond traditional spaces.

Today’s efforts will shape the future of HIV response, led by communities themselves.