In Rubengera Sector, Karongi District, there are growing concerns over new HIV infections, particularly among men who have sex with men (MSM) and sex workers.
The rising spread of the virus has led to the launch of an awareness campaign focused on prevention, including the distribution of condoms and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).
According to 2024 statistics from the Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC), among 37 MSM tested, 10.5% were found to be HIV positive. Among 847 female sex workers, 28.8% were infected.
In response, 20,000 condoms and protective medication were distributed. The organization behind this initiative said the campaign will continue and that HIV-positive individuals are being referred to health centers for appropriate care.
Local health authorities admit that prevention awareness has declined, as some people wrongly believe HIV is no longer a threat. However, statistics show that around 3,200 new infections occur annually in Rwanda, with 2,600 deaths related to AIDS.
Health experts warn that complacency could reverse the progress made in the fight against HIV/AIDS, emphasizing that the disease has not been eradicated.
