AFRAVIH conference: strategies to support adolescents living with HIV in Burkina Faso

During the 13th edition of the AFRAVIH conference on HIV prevention in Lausanne, Switzerland, experts highlighted the critical need for mental health support for adolescents living with HIV. The gathering brought together healthcare professionals, activists, and policymakers to discuss innovative approaches in combating the psychological impact of the virus.

Among the key participants was Christine Kafando, a prominent Burkinabè activist and founder of an association dedicated to HIV advocacy. As the first woman in Burkina Faso to publicly disclose her HIV-positive status, she shared her insights on the challenges faced by young people navigating both their health condition and societal stigma.

Mental health challenges for adolescents with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa

Research presented at the conference underscored the disproportionate mental health risks faced by adolescents living with HIV. A 2022 study by psychiatrist Philip Kreniske revealed that individuals with HIV have a 74% higher likelihood of attempting suicide compared to the general population. This alarming statistic highlights the urgent need for comprehensive psychological support systems tailored to young people in Africa.

Key factors contributing to mental health struggles

• Social stigma: Many adolescents face discrimination due to their HIV status, which can lead to isolation and depression.
• Treatment adherence challenges: The complexity of antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimens can overwhelm young patients, particularly when combined with societal rejection.
• Limited access to mental health services: In many regions, including Burkina Faso, psychological care remains under-resourced, leaving vulnerable populations without adequate support.

Christine Kafando’s advocacy for youth living with HIV

Christine Kafando has dedicated her career to addressing these challenges through her association. Her work focuses on:

• Peer support programs: Creating safe spaces where adolescents can connect with others facing similar experiences.
• Community education: Raising awareness to reduce stigma and promote acceptance among families and peers.
• Mental health integration: Collaborating with healthcare providers to include psychological support in HIV treatment plans.

Her efforts have been instrumental in shaping policies that prioritize the mental well-being of young people with HIV in Burkina Faso and beyond.

Global lessons from AFRAVIH 2026

The AFRAVIH conference serves as a platform for sharing best practices and innovations in HIV care. Discussions on mental health integration in treatment protocols were a focal point, with experts emphasizing:

• The importance of early intervention to prevent long-term psychological damage.
• Training healthcare workers in culturally sensitive mental health care.
• Advocating for government policies that allocate resources to mental health services for vulnerable populations.

Looking ahead: Building a supportive future

As the global community continues to combat HIV, the focus must extend beyond physical health to include emotional and psychological well-being. Initiatives like those led by Christine Kafando demonstrate the transformative power of compassionate, community-driven care.

For adolescents living with HIV in Burkina Faso and across Africa, these efforts offer hope for a future where they can thrive not just as survivors, but as empowered individuals leading fulfilling lives.