A HISTORIC MILESTONE AS AHF REACHES 2 MILLION HIV LIVES IN CARE 

The AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) has reached a historic milestone, supporting over 2 million individuals living with HIV worldwide. This remarkable achievement highlights the critical importance of global health equity and access to essential healthcare services.

"We are thrilled to celebrate AHF's support for over 2 million patients globally. South Africa, the first country to join the global program in 2002, has played a pivotal role in reaching this milestone," says Dr. Kate Ssamula, Country Programme Director for AHF South Africa.

"Our mission is to provide quality and effective HIV services to those in need, driven by accurate data. The fight against HIV continues, and through collaborative efforts as multilateral stakeholders, we aim to reduce and ultimately eradicate new HIV infections. We strive to ensure everyone needing ART treatment receives it while educating communities. By continuously innovating and advancing HIV advocacy and literacy, we empower communities to lead the fight against HIV, aiming to end it by 2030."

Since its inception in 1987, AHF has been at the forefront of the global fight against HIV/AIDS, delivering essential services, advocacy, and innovative solutions to combat the pandemic. This significant milestone underscores AHF's unwavering commitment to improving the lives of those affected by HIV/AIDS.

AHF Milestones:

• 2 million lives in care, July 20, 2024
• 1.5 million lives in care, December 1, 2020
• 1 million lives in care, October 1, 2018
• 500,000 lives in care, November 13, 2015
• 250,000 lives in care, November 27, 2013
• 100,000 lives in care, April 15, 2009

"We are immensely proud to reach this historic milestone. When we launched our global programmes more than 20 years ago in two African countries with 100 patients in each, we never imagined we'd one day be serving 2 million lives under our care," says AHF President Michael Weinstein. "It is an honour and a testament to the dedication and hard work of our staff, partners, and volunteers who tirelessly strive to make a difference in the lives of those affected by HIV/AIDS every day."

Dr Ssamula adds, “Reaching this milestone of patients supported and on HIV treatment is a testament to the unwavering commitment and relentless advocacy of our global community. This achievement reflects not just the numbers, but the countless lives touched, hopes restored, and futures transformed. Every individual in care represents a story of resilience and courage. Together, we've turned challenges into triumphs and despair into hope. Let this milestone inspire us to continue our mission with renewed vigour, ensuring that every person living with HIV receives the care and support they deserve."

With clinics and facilities in 47 countries worldwide, including Africa, Asia, the Americas, and Europe, AHF continues to leverage innovative healthcare delivery models to expand its reach and impact. It reaches communities in need by providing comprehensive medical care, treatment, testing, prevention, and support services.

As AHF continues its fight against the HIV/AIDS pandemic, the organisation remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating for access to HIV treatment and care for everyone who needs it and holding Big Pharma and decision-makers accountable. This milestone is a powerful reminder of the importance of global health equity and the ongoing effort to ensure that all people, regardless of their economic status, have access to life-saving healthcare services.

About AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF)

AHF is a global non-profit organisation providing cutting-edge medicine and advocacy to over 2 million people in 47 countries. They are currently the largest provider of HIV/AIDS medical care in the world. For more information, please visit https://www.aidshealth.org/global/south-africa/