Triple Elimination of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV

The World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Africa has initiated a pivotal effort for triple elimination of HIV in Africa titled “New step in African region’s efforts to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B.” This article outlines key initiatives aimed at combating these infections. Notably, a central focus is the establishment of the Regional Validation Committee, which is essential for overseeing the national validation reports concerning the elimination of mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B.

Launch of the Regional Validation Committee

The WHO Regional Office for Africa has established a Regional Validation Committee to verify the national validation reports for the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B. This committee plays a critical role in ensuring the quality and validity of the elimination reports and certifying countries that meet their goals.

Validation Process

The validation process is transparent and follows standardised criteria and tools. It includes a rigorous assessment at national, regional, and global levels, focusing on significant impact indicators and foundational requirements: data quality, programs, laboratory quality, and community engagement, alongside human rights and gender equality.

Membership and Inaugural Meeting

The Regional Validation Committee comprises experts from countries including Botswana, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, Uganda, the United States, and Zimbabwe. The inaugural meeting took place in Brazzaville on November 25-26, 2024.

Commitment and Progress

The committee’s formation highlights the commitment of countries and WHO to help achieve triple infection elimination. The African region has made significant progress against HIV, with over 21.3 million on antiretroviral treatment and 90% of pregnant women in Eastern and Southern Africa receiving therapy to protect infants. Nevertheless, progress remains slow in West and Central Africa.

Role of the Committee

The committee is tasked with reviewing national reports, identifying gaps, and assisting countries in adhering to stringent validation standards. Its aim is to validate and catalyse the development of stronger, more resilient health systems.

Framework and Certification

Guided by WHO’s Framework for Triple Elimination, the committee offers high-burden countries a clear progress roadmap. Notable successes include Botswana achieving silver-tier status for HIV elimination and Namibia’s advancements in hepatitis B and HIV elimination.

Broader Context

The triple elimination agenda fits into broader efforts to reduce disease burden in Africa. Moreover, and importantly, this aligns with global strategies, such as the Global Strategy for Women, Children, and Adolescents’ Health (2016–2030).

In summary, it emphasises the need for the WHO and African nations to eliminate MTCT of HIV. Consequently, it highlights the Regional Validation Committee’s role in validating progress and strengthening health systems across the continent. This endeavor reflects the determination to achieve tangible results in the fight against these infections.