The International AIDS Society (IAS) has announced Kigali, Rwanda, as the host city for the 13th IAS Conference on HIV Science, known as IAS 2025. Scheduled from July 14 to 17, 2025, with pre-meetings on July 13, the conference will address the challenges and opportunities in combating HIV, especially in regions heavily impacted by the virus.
IAS President-Elect and IAS 2025 International Chair Beatriz Grinsztejn emphasized the conference's significance. "IAS 2025 will serve as a critical reflection point to collectively assess and expand upon the advances in HIV science to end AIDS as a public health threat," Grinsztejn stated. "With only five years remaining to meet the 2030 targets, it is essential that the global HIV science agenda makes significant progress toward a more equitable HIV response. This conference provides a vital platform for researchers, advocates, communities, and policymakers to advance that response together."
Kigali's selection as the conference venue was influenced by Rwanda’s reputation as a premier destination for international meetings, its modern convention centre, and its visa-free entry policy for African nationals. These factors were crucial in the IAS Executive Board's decision, following recommendations from its Conference Committee.
Jeanine Umutesi Condo, IAS 2025 Local Chair, expressed pride in Rwanda's selection. "Hosting the IAS Conference on HIV Science allows us to showcase Rwanda’s evidence-based approach to ending AIDS," Condo said. "Rwanda is one of the few countries to have met the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets—seven years ahead of schedule—demonstrating our commitment to HIV care and treatment. We are eager to share our success story with the global community."
The 95-95-95 targets refer to having 95% of all people living with HIV aware of their status, 95% of those diagnosed receiving sustained antiretroviral therapy, and 95% of those on therapy achieving viral suppression by 2030. Although 16 other African countries are nearing these targets, central, eastern, southern, and western Africa still account for 65% of all people living with HIV.
Rwandan Minister of Health Sabin Nsanzimana emphasized the country’s progress. "Rwanda has transformed from one of the world’s poorest nations to a leader in global health and development," Nsanzimana said. "To end HIV as a public health threat, it is crucial to invest in effective prevention strategies and address the inequities that place women at greater risk of acquiring HIV. Our history has taught us the importance of flexible and tailored approaches."
To increase accessibility, the IAS will offer hundreds of scholarships, significantly discounted registration rates for young people and individuals from lower-income countries, and free online access to major conference sessions two months post-event.
IAS 2025 is poised to play a significant role in advancing HIV science and fostering collaborative solutions to end AIDS, reinforcing Kigali’s growing stature as a key player in global health.
Article by RB Reporter
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