By Ibrahim S. Bangura
FREETOWN, March 18, 2026 – The Ministry of Health (MoH), in collaboration with the National Public Health Agency (NPHA) and Statistics Sierra Leone, has officially launched the Sierra Leone Population-Based HIV Impact Assessment (SiLPHIA 2026), marking a decisive step in the country’s fight against HIV/AIDS.
The launch ceremony, held at the Youyi Building in Freetown, introduced the nationwide survey designed to generate robust, population-level data on HIV prevalence, treatment coverage, and viral suppression. The findings will guide national strategies, strengthen interventions, and track progress toward global HIV targets.
Commitment to Global Goals
In his keynote address, Minister of Health Dr. Austin Demby reaffirmed the government’s dedication to data-driven public health decision-making. He highlighted Sierra Leone’s ambition to surpass the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets by setting a bold national goal of 98-98-98, aiming for near-universal HIV testing, treatment, and viral suppression.
Describing SiLPHIA as a “turning point” for public health, Dr. Demby emphasized that the survey will empower communities, strengthen accountability, and accelerate progress toward ending HIV as a public health threat. He assured participants that confidentiality and ethical standards are paramount, stressing that the survey is designed to protect individuals from stigma and discrimination. “Stigmatization and discrimination are the negatives Sierra Leone does not want,” he said.
Scientific Leadership
Professor Sahr, Lead Scientist and Principal Investigator for SiLPHIA 2026, explained that this is Sierra Leone’s first-ever national HIV survey of the general population. For the first time, accurate household-level data will reveal how many people are living with HIV, how many are on treatment, and how many have achieved viral suppression.
“SiLPHIA will provide the honest picture of where Sierra Leone truly stands,” Professor Sahr noted. “With this information, the MoH can act with precision, ensuring that policies and interventions reflect the real needs of our people.”
International Partnerships
The initiative is supported by international partners, including PEPFAR and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), with technical assistance from ICAP at Columbia University and Statistics Sierra Leone. Professor Sahr expressed gratitude for these partnerships and commended Minister Demby’s personal commitment to advancing Sierra Leone’s HIV agenda.
Community Participation
Professor Sahr encouraged households to welcome survey teams and participate voluntarily, assuring the public that all testing is free, confidential, and conducted privately in participants’ homes. Anyone who tests positive will be immediately linked to care and treatment, with personal information anonymized to improve health services nationwide.
“SiLPHIA 2026 is a defining chapter in Sierra Leone’s fight against HIV,” he said. “The teams are in the field, the science is strong, and most importantly, the Ministry of Health is leading with dedication and vision.”
A Historic Milestone
The launch of SiLPHIA represents a historic moment in Sierra Leone’s national HIV response. By harnessing data-driven insights, the MoH is better positioned to combat HIV/AIDS with precision, reduce stigma, empower survivors, and strengthen evidence-based policymaking.
With strong leadership, international support, and active community participation, SiLPHIA 2026 sets a precedent for science-led, transparent, and community-focused public health initiatives. The Ministry of Health is paving the way for a future where HIV is no longer a public health threat, and Sierra Leoneans can live healthier, more empowered lives.