On this Zero Discrimination Day, the International Community of Women Living with HIV in Eastern Africa (ICWEA) calls for urgent action to end discrimination in all its forms, particularly against women and girls living with HIV. This year’s theme, ‘We Stand Together’, highlights the power of unity and collective action in dismantling systemic barriers that perpetuate stigma and inequality. Now more than ever, we must come together to defend the rights and dignity of people living with and affected by HIV.
This year’s commemoration comes at a time when the cut in the U.S. foreign aid has severely impacted HIV and TB services in Eastern Africa, exacerbating stigma, discrimination, and human rights violations against people living with and affected by HIV. The funding cut has disproportionately affected women and girls, deepening inequalities and further limiting access to life-saving HIV prevention and treatment services. In the face of these challenges, we must stand together to protect our communities and demand justice.
ICWEA’s recent assessment on the impact of the funding freeze reveals alarming findings. Across Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Burundi, and Rwanda, women and girls have faced increased stigma, involuntary disclosure of their HIV status, job losses, and gender-based violence. Many have been denied access to essential medications, maternal and child health services have been disrupted, and psychological distress has escalated due to the uncertainty of continued treatment. Health workers, who play a critical role in service delivery, have also lost their jobs, leading to service interruptions and long waiting times at health facilities.
As one health worker in Uganda shared, “We have seen a sharp increase in clients who miss their appointments due to fear and uncertainty. Without immediate intervention, lives will be lost.” Another community member expressed their distress, saying, “I never imagined a time when I would have to break my ARV pills in half just to make them last longer.”
The disruption in funding has not only created immediate health crises but has also intensified long-standing discrimination within healthcare settings. Reports from community-led monitoring efforts indicate that people living with HIV are experiencing heightened stigma, rejection, and reduced prioritization for services. Now is the time to unite, amplify our voices, and demand equal access to healthcare for all.
Zero Discrimination Day is a reminder that everyone has the right to access quality healthcare, and be free from stigma and discrimination. By standing together, we can create a world where discrimination is no longer tolerated. Governments and stakeholders must urgently act to restore funding and ensure that no one is left behind in the fight against HIV & TB.
We call on:
- The African governments to increase domestic funding for HIV programs and ensure sustained, uninterrupted access to HIV treatment and prevention services.
- International donors to reinstate funding and uphold commitments to global health.
- Healthcare providers to adopt anti-discrimination policies, strengthen community-led monitoring, and integrate mental health support into HIV services.
- Communities to challenge stigma and discrimination, empower women and girls to lead in the HIV response, and advocate for inclusive policies that protect their rights.
ICWEA reaffirms its commitment to advocating for the rights of women and girls living with HIV and ensuring that discrimination is eradicated in all forms. This Zero Discrimination Day, let us stand together to uphold justice and protect lives.
For more information, contact:
Lillian Mworeko
International Community of women living with HIV Eastern Africa (ICWEA)
+256703975192
