Liberia Marks World AIDS Day 2025 With Call for Stronger Domestic Action to Sustain HIV Response

Monrovia – Liberia on Monday joined countries around the world to commemorate World AIDS Day 2025, renewing its commitment to ending AIDS and strengthening a sustainable national HIV response. The global theme, “Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response,” was complemented by Liberia’s local theme, “Mobilizing Domestic Support, Transforming the AIDS Response.”

Speaking on behalf of the United Nations during the national observance, UNDP Resident Representative Aliou M. Dia, representing the UN Resident Coordinator, praised Liberia’s significant strides in fighting HIV over the past decade. He cited a 69% decline in new infections since 2010, and treatment coverage exceeding 98% among those who know their status—progress that has contributed to a 74% reduction in AIDS-related deaths.

Dia credited strong government leadership, robust community engagement, and the continued support of national and international partners for these achievements. He emphasized that communities remain at the forefront of prevention, care, and support initiatives, driving the country’s HIV response.

“These achievements reflect strong government leadership, community engagement, and the unwavering support of national and international partners,” Dia said.

However, he cautioned that Liberia still faces obstacles, including service delivery disruptions, funding gaps, stigma, discrimination, and persistent inequalities in access to HIV services. Sustainability, he stressed, must now be the priority, noting that Liberia cannot continue relying predominantly on donor support.

Dia outlined key priority actions going forward, including mobilizing domestic resources to sustainably finance HIV prevention, treatment, and social support; strengthening health systems to provide integrated services for HIV, TB and other health needs; empowering communities to lead local solutions as drivers of progress; expanding innovation and partnerships to ensure equitable access and cost-effective interventions.

He also commended development partners, civil society organizations, and donors for their continued contributions. The recent US$11.34 billion raised through the Global Fund’s replenishment for the 2026–2029 cycle, he said, demonstrates ongoing global commitment to ending AIDS.

Dr. Cecelia Nuta, Chairperson of the National AIDS Commission, reaffirmed that HIV is no longer a death sentence. “People living with HIV can work, thrive, and contribute to national development. We must ensure that stigma and discrimination do not undo the progress we have achieved over the years,” she said, stressing the vital role of community leadership in sustaining gains.

Dr. Jonathan Flomo, Program Manager of the National AIDS and STI Control Program (NACP), emphasized the importance of testing and treatment. He highlighted that pregnant women are now routinely tested for HIV and syphilis to ensure timely care for mothers and babies.

Call to Action

Stakeholders were urged to step up efforts to sustain Liberia’s HIV response.

Lawmakers are encouraged to prioritize HIV programs in the national budget and enact laws protecting the rights of vulnerable groups.

The private sector is called upon to create inclusive workplaces, support health insurance systems, and invest in health innovations.

Young people are recognized as central to achieving an AIDS-free future through their leadership, creativity, and advocacy.

As the country reflects on progress and remaining challenges, Liberia’s message on World AIDS Day 2025 is clear: collective action, domestic investment, and community leadership are essential to ending AIDS and ensuring dignity, rights, and access for all.