South Africa continues to carry the highest number of people living with HIV globally. Statistics South Africa estimates that in 2024, approximately 8.0 million people are living with HIV. The number has continued to rise, influenced in part by treatment interruptions following the closure of several PEPFAR/USAID-funded facilities in early 2025.
HIV remains a significant public health challenge, and despite ongoing education and awareness efforts, many myths and misconceptions still persist. Stigma remains a major barrier to testing, treatment, and support. This section provides clear, reliable information to empower individuals, reduce stigma, and offer guidance to both those living with HIV and those affected by it.
Current HIV picture in South Africa
• Overall HIV prevalence: Approximately 12.7% of the total population
• People living with HIV: An estimated 8.0 million
• Adult prevalence (15–49 years): 19.6%
• Gender differences in prevalence:
– Women aged 15–49: 23%
– Men aged 15–49: 11.3%
• Youth prevalence (15–24 years):
– Young women: 9.4%
– Young men: 3.8%
• Workforce prevalence (20–65 years): Around 23% of economically active adults
• Treatment access: Approximately 6.2 million people are currently on antiretroviral therapy, although the full impact of recent service disruptions is still being assessed.
• Provincial differences:
– Mpumalanga records the highest provincial prevalence at 17.4%.
– KwaZulu-Natal has the second-highest rate in the country.
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