Cameroon wins prestigious award for HIV diagnostic innovations.

Public Health Minister Dr Manaouda Malachie

The Minister of Public Health, Dr Manaouda Malachie, has announced that Cameroon has been recognised with the “Best Innovation Award in Differentiated Services for HIV Diagnostics”.

The prestigious accolade was awarded during the eighth annual meeting of the Coverage and Quality Impact Network, CQUIN, held in Johannesburg, South Africa, from December 9 to 13.



The Health Minister made the announcement in a communique he signed on Friday, January 3. 

As per the minister’s communique, Cameroon’s success highlights the government’s ongoing efforts to combat HIV/AIDS through innovative and effective strategies.

The award specifically acknowledges advancements in differentiated HIV diagnostics implemented across the country. These strategies have been lauded for their alignment with local epidemiological contexts and for being centred on patient needs.

The member of government, through his communique, went on to reveal the key innovations that contributed to Cameroon’s recognition.

Adopting a Three-Test Algorithm, the country introduced a diagnostic algorithm based on three tests, ensuring precise HIV detection in line with its epidemiological profile.

Integrated Screening Approach, Cameroon has implemented combined testing for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B, focusing on high-risk populations and adopting strategies tailored for vulnerable groups.

Community-Based HIV Self-Testing has enhanced access to health services, increased awareness of HIV status, and strengthened links to antiretroviral treatment across the nation.

Through Active Search for Children Living with HIV, utilising a district-level community approach, Cameroon has significantly improved pediatric care outcomes, notably achieving first- and second-line pediatric HIV treatment targets.

According to Minister Manaouda, the award serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts between the government and its partners in improving the quality of life for individuals living with HIV. 

He said it reinforces the importance of trust in the country’s healthcare system and its commitment to eliminating AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, a vision aligned with President Paul Biya's universal health coverage policies.

The minister emphasised that this recognition represents a motivation to enhance resource mobilisation for priority interventions targeting HIV elimination.

 

This story was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3334 of Friday January 10, 2025

 

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