Matero Level One Hospital, Lusaka – December 10, 2024 – In a significant step toward accelerating Zambia’s HIV prevention efforts, the Ascend Futures Foundation hosted a dynamic capacity-building workshop at Matero Level One Hospital, bringing together healthcare providers, peer educators, advocates, and young people. The session focused on expanding knowledge of Zambia’s HIV prevention landscape, including the latest advancements in biomedical prevention tools and strategies to enhance community engagement.
Expert Insights on Cutting-Edge HIV Prevention Tools
The workshop featured high-level presentations from leading HIV prevention experts, including:
- Dr. Chimika Phiri (HIV Prevention Advisor, Ministry of Health), who provided a comprehensive overview of Zambia’s HIV prevention strategy, emphasizing the government’s commitment to expanding safe, effective, and accessible options such as:
- Oral PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis)
- Injectable Cabotegravir (CAB-LA) for long-term protection
- Dapivirine Vaginal Ring, a discreet and woman-controlled prevention tool
- Future innovations, including Lenacapavir (a twice-yearly injectable) and the Dual Prevention Pill (DPP), which combines HIV prevention and contraception
- Chilufya Hampongo (HIV Prevention & Research Programs Officer, TALC), who highlighted the Dapivirine Vaginal Ring as a game-changer for women and girls, stressing the need for community education to combat misinformation and ensure proper usage.
- Grace Kumwenda (AVAC), who explored the HIV prevention research pipeline, discussing emerging technologies such as:
- Broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs)
- Multipurpose Prevention Technologies (MPTs)
- Progress toward an HIV vaccine
A Call for Collaboration in HIV Prevention
A key theme of the workshop was the critical role of partnerships in scaling up HIV prevention. Participants discussed how healthcare workers, advocates, and peer educators can work together to:
✔ Increase awareness of new prevention tools
✔ Address myths and misinformation
✔ Improve access for key populations, particularly adolescent girls and young women (AGYW)
Gratitude and Next Steps
The Ascend Futures Foundation extends deep appreciation to:
- Sister Intitima (ART In-Charge, Matero Level One Hospital) for her instrumental role in organizing the workshop.
- Healthcare providers, youth participants, and online attendees for their active engagement.
- IAS – International AIDS Society Youth Hub for their support in advancing youth-focused HIV prevention initiatives.
“Knowledge is power in the fight against HIV,” said one participant. “With the right tools and education, we can empower communities to take control of their health.”
Moving Forward: A Future Free from HIV
The workshop reinforced the importance of continuous learning, advocacy, and accessibility in Zambia’s HIV response. The Ascend Futures Foundation remains committed to:
🔹 Expanding education on HIV prevention options
🔹 Advocating for policies that support equitable access
🔹 Engaging communities to drive demand and uptake
Together, we can build a Zambia where no one is left behind in the fight to end HIV.