In 2023, the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR) reported that 1,111,600 people voluntarily tested for HIV, with 9,270 individuals found to be infected. Among these, women exhibited a higher infection rate but were more likely than men to adhere to antiretroviral treatment.
The breakdown of voluntary testing showed that out of 681,934 women tested, 5,518 were HIV positive, while 429,666 men were tested, and 3,752 were found to be infected. The data further revealed that females take less aggressive medication than males.
Age Distribution and Infection Rates
The NISR data highlighted that 37,158 individuals under 15 were tested, with 225 found to be HIV positive. Among those aged 15 to 24, 380,371 were tested, with 1,602 testing positive. The highest number of cases was recorded among individuals over 25, where 694,071 were tested, and 7,443 were found to be HIV positive.
Regional Insights
HIV testing and infection rates varied across Rwanda’s regions:
- Eastern Province: 289,015 tested; 2,675 infected.
- Western Province: 237,897 tested; 1,431 infected.
- Northern Province: 143,435 tested; 810 infected.
- Southern Province: 206,557 tested; 1,543 infected.
- Kigali City: 234,696 tested; 2,811 infected.
Gender Disparities in Treatment
The report showed a stark difference in antiretroviral drug uptake between genders. Among adults living with HIV, 63.3% of women were on antiretroviral therapy compared to 36.7% of men. Similarly, 52.5% of girls and 47.5% of boys with HIV were on treatment.
Couples and HIV Status
Out of 74,437 couples who voluntarily tested, 2,458 cases were identified where one partner was HIV positive while the other remained uninfected.
Comparing 2022 and 2023
In 2022, 1,173,010 people were tested, and 8,507 were found to be HIV positive—3,404 men and 5,103 women. This indicates an increase in the number of cases identified in 2023.
National Trends in Treatment and Mortality
According to the Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC), more than 220,000 individuals are currently on antiretroviral therapy, with 95% adhering to treatment and 90% showing positive responses. Despite these achievements, the mortality rate remains concerning.
Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, Minister of Health, reported in December 2024 that seven people die from AIDS daily in Rwanda—an improvement from 20 daily deaths a decade ago. Many deaths are attributed to late diagnosis or fear of stigma, preventing individuals from seeking timely care.
Mother-to-Child Transmission and Prostitution Risks
Progress has been made in reducing mother-to-child HIV transmission during childbirth, which decreased from 2% in past years to 0.9% in 2024. However, women involved in prostitution remain among the most vulnerable groups. Historically, the prevalence of HIV among sex workers in Rwanda reached 35% in the early years of the epidemic (1983). Although this number decreased, it still stood at 50% over the last decade, underscoring the need for targeted interventions.
Looking Ahead
While Rwanda has made significant strides in HIV testing, treatment, and prevention, challenges remain. Continued efforts in awareness, combating stigma, and enhancing access to healthcare are critical in reducing infections and saving lives