Port-of-Spain, 22 May 2026 (PAHO): – The Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) has officially handed over testing and treatment supplies to support patients with Advanced HIV disease, to the Ministry of Health, in support of Trinidad and Tobago’s national HIV response. The donation was presented to the Honourable Dr. Lackram Bodoe, Minister of Health by Dr. Gabriel Vivas Francesconi, PAHO/WHO Representative for Trinidad and Tobago and the Dutch Caribbean Islands.
The supplies were provided under the Unitaid-funded Advanced HIV Disease (AHD) Project, which is implemented by PAHO. The initiative focuses on expanding access to rapid diagnostic tools and essential treatments for people living with advanced HIV.
The donated supplies will enhance Trinidad and Tobago's capacity to promptly identify and manage serious infections, such as tuberculosis, histoplasmosis, and cryptococcal meningitis, which are leading contributors to severe illness and mortality among individuals with advanced HIV.
During the brief discussions before the handover, Dr. Vivas highlighted the importance of strengthening early diagnosis and timely treatment. He noted that improving access to these critical tools will contribute to better patient outcomes and more effective management of advanced HIV disease.
Minister Bodoe welcomed the donation and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to achieving the HIV goals.
This contribution is intended to strengthen ongoing national efforts by showcasing how these specialized commodities can be effectively incorporated into standard HIV care. Countries in the initiative are encouraged to make these products part of their regular purchasing systems, including through the PAHO Strategic Fund, to ensure a steady and more affordable supply over time.
The handover aligns with PAHO’s Elimination Initiative, which aims to end HIV as a public health issue by 2030. By strengthening diagnosis and treatment for advanced HIV, Trinidad and Tobago continues to move closer to that goal.
PAHO/WHO remains committed to working with national authorities to expand access to quality care and improve health outcomes for all.
