Embracing the theme ‘Let communities lead’ on World AIDS Day 2023, the Medicines Patent Pool amplifies the resilient voices of individuals in India, Kenya, Senegal, and South Africa—testimonies of courage, resilience, and the profound impact of community-led initiatives in the HIV response. As we delve into the heart of these communities, we unveil narratives of triumph over sickness, battles for treatment, encounters with stigma, and the invaluable strength derived from mutual support.
Through our commitment to voluntary licensing, we’ve empowered over 130 low- and middle-income countries with quality, affordable HIV treatments. Today, millions of lives are touched by the efficacy of generic medicines, a testament to the strength of collaboration and the enduring bond with the communities we serve. In the spirit of gratitude, we celebrate our partners and express heartfelt appreciation to the communities that stand with us, marking each step toward a healthier, more inclusive future.
Discover their stories…
Kenya
Josefine from Kibera, Kenya
Meet Josefine, who shares how life with HIV has been for her over the last 20 years since her diagnosis.
“I have HIV, I can manage it, I can do my work, I can raise my kids. […] So it’s a challenge, but not very big like before. […] Nowadays people are educated and they know, this is just HIV and you can manage to live with it.”
Anna (mother) and Nancy (daughter), Kibera, Kenya
Meet Anna and Nancy, a mother and her daughter from Kenya, both living with HIV, sharing their experience on disclosing to loved ones and the struggle with adhering to treatment, especially as an adolescent.
“She (Nancy’s mom, Anna) ensured that I was taking my medication on the right time, I didn’t miss. I have been undetectable for over 10 years actually, thanks to her.”
India
Hari Singh from New Delhi, India
Meet Hari, as he takes us to the streets of Delhi, where he links the Opioid Substitution Therapy (O.S.T.) clinics with people who need it, sometimes as they get arrested by the police, and offers HIV counselling to the whole community taking a holistic approach to access to testing and treatment for people who inject drugs.
“I think near about the last eight years we are here, the crime has definitely reduced. […] Some people are completely recovered from this direction. They are completely recovered and they are thankful to us.”
Senegal
Discover the transformative impact of dolutegravir in Senegal. In November 2023, we visited BOKK YAKAAR, a NGO dedicated to supporting individuals living with HIV in Fatick. Our journey allowed us to gather firsthand feedback on the rollout of dolutegravir for both adults and children. Through interviews with healthcare workers, the director of BOKK YAKAAR, Ibrahima Ba, and the people directly affected by HIV, this video offers a compelling look at the real-world benefits and challenges of improving access to essential HIV treatments.
South Africa
Join Nombeko Mpongo, a resilient individual living with HIV in South Africa, as she shares her inspiring journey towards better health. In this testimonial, Nombeko discusses the life-altering access to HIV treatment and the profound difference dolutegravir has made in her life. She also touch on the next challenges to end the HIV epidemic. Her story is one of hope and empowerment.
South Africa
Welcome to an essential dialogue on the journey of HIV access and treatment for men in South Africa. Historically, the focus and funding have been directed towards women, leaving a critical gap in the conversation and care on men. Dr. Katherine Gill from the Desmond Tutu Health Foundation, provides her expert perspective on why a differentiated approach is crucial for diagnosing and treating men. Alongside Dr. Gill’s insights, we hear a powerful testimonial from a man who will share his personal story from diagnosis to present day.