Fatshimetrie: Access to Antiretroviral Treatment Maintained Despite Insecurity in North Kivu
The humanitarian situation in the Beni, Lubero and Butembo regions of North Kivu remains worrying. Insecurity is rife, forcing populations to flee and disrupting the daily lives of thousands of families. Yet, in the midst of this chaos, a glimmer of hope persists for HIV-AIDS patients. Antiretroviral drugs remain accessible, offering invaluable respite to those who fight this devastating disease on a daily basis.
In a context where the availability of essential drugs is often compromised, the Beni, Lubero and Butembo regions stand out for their relatively stable supply of antiretrovirals. Local health centers are regularly supplied, ensuring that HIV-positive patients can continue their treatment without interruption. This continuity of access to ARVs represents real hope for many people, including the poignant testimony of a woman who has been on treatment for over a decade that resonates strongly.
“When I learned in 2010 that I was HIV-positive, I was at my lowest point. At a featherweight of 25 kg, I could not imagine a serene future. Thanks to ARVs, the situation has changed. The drugs are there, regularly. Today, I am standing, I am strong, I can work.”
This moving story demonstrates the concrete impact of access to antiretroviral treatments in crisis contexts. Despite logistical and security difficulties, local health authorities are doing everything they can to ensure a regular supply of vital drugs. This dedication is reflected in the daily lives of patients, as another moving testimony attests.
“In this year 2024, I have been living with HIV for almost two decades. When I started ARVs, I weighed only 38 kg, weakened by the disease. Today, my weight has gone back up to 55 kg, a rebirth thanks to the medications available in all the facilities where I am followed.”
This perseverance in maintaining access to antiretroviral treatments is a lifesaver for many patients, offering them the opportunity to regain their health and nourish renewed hopes. However, beyond the logistical challenges, another battle persists for these people: that of stigmatization and social rejection. If medications are a bulwark against the disease, education and awareness remain essential to combat the prejudices and exclusion faced by HIV-positive patients.
Despite the torments experienced by the populations of North Kivu, the persistence of access to antiretroviral treatments is a ray of light in the darkness. This commitment to the health of HIV-positive patients embodies a glimmer of hope in a context marked by adversity. While the road to recovery is fraught with challenges, the availability of ARVs provides patients with the strength and determination to continue fighting for a better future.