Guyana observes World AIDS Day with renewed commitment

Guyana joins the rest of the world in observing World AIDS Day 2025, today, with public health officials, community organisations and regional health authorities renewing their commitment to reducing new infections, expanding treatment access and ending stigma and discrimination. This year’s theme, “Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response” calls for sustained political leadership, international cooperation and human-rights-centred approaches to end AIDS by 2030.
The Ministry of Health noted that Guyana has continued to make progress in reducing new HIV infections over the past decade, driven by expanded testing services, decentralised treatment across the regions and the availability of modern antiretroviral therapy (ART). More people living with HIV are achieving viral suppression, meaning the virus becomes undetectable and untransmittable, a milestone that officials say is key to ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
However, despite advances, health authorities warn that stigma remains one of the biggest barriers to people accessing testing and treatment. A senior health official in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) told this publication that while medication is widely available and effective, many individuals hesitate to seek help due to fear of discrimination. “Communities must take the lead in changing the culture. World AIDS Day is a reminder that this fight is not just medical; it is social. When people feel safe to come forward, they get tested earlier, start treatment sooner and live long, healthy lives,” the official who asked not to be named said.
Across the country, several activities are scheduled for the coming days, including awareness walks, candlelight vigils, counselling sessions, school outreach programmes, and free HIV testing drives led by regional health departments and local non-governmental organisations (NGOs). Many groups will also use the opportunity to honour those who have died from AIDS-related illnesses and celebrate the resilience of persons living with HIV.
Guyana’s health sector continues to promote the message U=U — “Undetectable = Untransmittable,” emphasising that individuals on consistent treatment who maintain an undetectable viral load cannot transmit the virus to sexual partners. Officials say this scientific breakthrough has transformed the way the disease is understood and has reduced fear and misinformation. World AIDS Day, first observed in 1988, remains one of the most significant health awareness events globally. As Guyana reflects on the progress achieved and the work ahead, health leaders say the 2025, observance is a timely reminder that ending AIDS requires strong communities, strong systems, and sustained compassion for all. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) after decades of progress, the HIV response stands at a crossroads. Life-saving services are being disrupted, and many communities face heightened risks and vulnerabilities. Yet amid these challenges, hope endures in the determination, resilience, and innovation of communities who strive to end AIDS.