End Inequalities End AIDS - On the Fast-Track: scaling up evidence-based services to address transmission of HIV, and viral hepatitis among people who use drugs

15^th March 2024 – A high-level side event titled "End Inequalities End AIDS: On the fast-track scaling up evidence-based services to address the transmission of HIV and viral hepatitis among people who use drugs," was organized by Republic of Kenya and South Africa with the support of the UNODC HIV/AIDS section.

The event aimed at assessing the progress made since 2019 in addressing HIV, viral hepatitis C, and other blood-borne diseases among people who use drugs (PWUD). It provided an opportunity for regional and global stakeholders to collaboratively explore innovative solutions and share best practices. Opening remarks were made by H.E. Mr. Rapulane Molekane, Permanent Representative of South Africa, and Ms. Ghada Waly, Executive Director of the UNODC.

The high-level event opened with two video statements from H. E. Ms. Lindiwe Zulu, Minister of Social Development in South Africa and H.E. Michael Falzon, Minister of Social Policy and Childrens rights in Malta. They shared their countries experiences in implementing essential harm reduction services and reiterated their commitment in aligning national plans and strategies with the goal of ending and combating HIV/AIDS and hepatitis.

The first panel – moderated by Dr. Nandi Mayathula Khoza, Chairperson of the South African Central Drug Authority Board – emphasized human rights-based approaches and comprehensive harm reduction strategies, sharing their national perspectives to the epidemic. They also stressed the importance of evidence-based approaches, collaboration with CSOs, and resource allocation to achieve collective goals in ending HIV/AIDS and viral hepatitis among PWUD and addressing drug-related challenges. It was also highlighted that there is a strong importance in addressing stigma and discrimination to reach the global commitments, as well as reducing legal and policy barriers. Needle and syringes programmes (NSPs), opioid agonist therapy (OAT) and naloxone distribution are key harm reduction measures that save lives.

The second panel moderated by Dr. Anthony Omerikwa, Chief Executive Officer of Kenya's National Agency for the Campaign Against Drug Abuse- advocated for a shared vision in addressing the complex challenges surrounding drug use and its intersection with HIV and viral hepatitis, through cooperation among stakeholders and a shift towards evidence-based and harm reduction-focused approaches. Speakers mentioned that significant developments have emerged within specific regions, positively influencing the cause. Overall, they concluded that prioritizing public health and upholding human rights in addressing the transmission of HIV and viral hepatitis among PWUD are paramount.

H.E. Mr. Maurice Makoloo, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Kenya closed the event by emphasizing how the positive experiences and discussions shared during the event are proof that the Global commitments to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030 and eliminate viral hepatitis among PWUD are within reach.

United Nations

Office on Drugs and Crime

End Inequalities End AIDS - On the Fast-Track: scaling up evidence-based services to address transmission of HIV, and viral hepatitis among people who use drugs