Reflections on the 2024 International AIDS Conference and five years of the ACHIEVE project

The global fight against HIV/AIDS remains a dynamic and multifaceted endeavor, with progress shaped by research, community engagement and international collaboration. The 2024 International AIDS Conference, held in Munich, Germany, recently brought together global leaders, researchers and advocates to review advancements and strategize for the future. This year also marks the fifth anniversary of the USAID-funded ACHIEVE Project, an effort focused on epidemic control in adolescents and children. For me and my colleagues at Pact who work in global health and HIV, it has been a time of learning and reflection.  

Highlights from Munich
This year’s conference was a pivotal moment for the HIV/AIDS community, showcasing new research and prevention innovations and providing a space for critical discussions on global health disparities. 

One of the standout themes was the integration of cutting-edge technology in HIV care. Discussions highlighted advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning, which are being leveraged to improve diagnostics and personalize treatment plans. Artificial intelligence algorithms are now capable of predicting patient responses to various therapies with greater accuracy, potentially revolutionizing the way HIV is managed and treated. 

The conference also placed a strong emphasis on global equity in HIV care. Despite significant advancements in treatment, key and priority populations continue to experience high rates of new infections and inadequate access to treatment. Panels and workshops underscored the urgent need for equitable distribution of resources and tailored interventions to address these disparities. The call for action was clear: Health programs must be inclusive and consider the diverse needs of various populations to reach epidemic control. 

ACHIEVE: Five years of transformative impact
Launched in 2019, the USAID-funded ACHIEVE (Adolescents and Children, HIV Incidence reduction, Empowerment, and Viral Elimination) project has made remarkable strides in the fight against HIV in children and adolescents. In five years, the project has delivered significant contributions and successes.  

Empowering communities: ACHIEVE has been instrumental in fostering community-led approaches to HIV. By engaging local leaders and stakeholders, the project has tailored its strategies to meet specific community needs. This empowerment has not only improved health outcomes but has also built a sense of resilience and collective responsibility.  

HIV and GBV prevention among youth:  ACHIEVE has been at the forefront of implementing DREAMS (Determined, Resilient, Empowered, AIDS-free, Mentored, and Safe) programming for adolescent girls and young women, including the widespread adoption of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and intensive economic strengthening. In several countries, ACHIEVE tackled HIV and GBV (gender-based violence) prevention with norms-changing, evidence-based curricula for adolescent boys and young men.  

Improving viral load suppression in children: Through OVC (orphans and vulnerable children) programming we have initiated case conferencing and other community based and household methods to ensure continuity of treatment for children, resulting in a viral suppression rate of 97.6%. 

Data-driven approaches: The project’s commitment to data collection and analysis has been crucial in refining its interventions. By continuously evaluating its programs, ACHIEVE has been able to adapt strategies based on evidence, ensuring that resources are utilized effectively and that interventions remain responsive to emerging needs.  

Capacity strengthening: Strong investments in capacity strengthening lead to more effective, efficient, and sustainable solutions. ACHIEVE has used a relationship-driven approach, based on mutual trust, respect and understanding to build local partners’ capacities across 14 technical and programmatic domains.  

Looking forward
As we reflect on insights from the Munich conference and celebrate the achievements of the ACHIEVE project, it is evident that the fight against pediatric AIDS is making significant strides. The integration of innovative technologies and focus on equity and community-driven approaches are shaping the future of HIV prevention and care. The five-year milestone of the ACHIEVE project serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that USAID, international NGOs like Pact, and empowered communities can have. 

ACHIEVE manages OVCSupport.org, a resource database focused on improving the lives of orphans and vulnerable children by connecting the global community and providing the most up-to-date information on HIV and other adversities. Visit OVCSupport.org for the latest technical news, information and events from the ACHIEVE project.