By Fatou Krubally
Dr. Ismail D. Badjie, founder and CEO of Innovarx Global Health, has warned Gambian youth to take HIV prevention seriously, citing cross-border realities and persistent misconceptions that continue to put young people at risk.
Speaking to reporters, Dr. Badjie said that while HIV is now more manageable thanks to advances in treatment, complacency among youth remains a major concern.
“Confidence without caution has already cost lives,” he said. Recent data show that young women aged 25 to 29 are among the most affected, with hundreds of new infections reported in 2024 alone.
Dr. Badjie urged young people to know their HIV status through regular testing, consistent condom use, and, where appropriate, Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP).
He highlighted that PrEP, still being rolled out nationally, can prevent more than 99% of infections when taken correctly. Condoms, he added, remain “the most accessible, affordable, and immediately available protection,” emphasizing that responsible use protects both individuals and the wider community.
Cross-border mobility, especially with neighboring Senegal, complicates efforts to control the epidemic. Seasonal workers, traders, and fishing communities often lack consistent access to healthcare, increasing the risk of HIV transmission.
Dr. Badjie called for stronger regional cooperation, including joint clinics, shared surveillance, and mobile health services for border populations, to ensure continuity of treatment and reduce infection rates.
He also addressed stigma, describing it as a learned barrier that can be overcome through education and community engagement. Faith leaders, families, and media outlets have key roles in normalizing HIV care and supporting those living with the virus.
Despite The Gambia’s successes — including 79% viral suppression among people on treatment and 98% of HIV-positive pregnant women linked to care — Dr. Badjie noted that only 64% of all people living with HIV know their status. He warned that this leaves thousands potentially transmitting the virus unknowingly.
He urged accelerated access to testing, treatment, and prevention services, especially for high-risk and key populations.
“Prevention is not just policy — it is personal,” Dr. Badjie said. “Every Gambian has a role in ending HIV. Our next step is moving from moderate performance to genuine epidemic control, and it begins with informed, responsible action today.”