By Fatou Krubally
Dr. Ismail D. Badjie, founder and CEO of Innovarx Global Health, has urged Gambian youth to take HIV prevention seriously, highlighting cross-border challenges and persistent misconceptions that put young people at risk.
Speaking to reporters, Dr. Badjie noted that while HIV is now more manageable due to treatment advances, complacency among youth remains a serious concern. “Confidence without caution has already cost lives,” he said. Recent data indicate that young women aged 25 to 29 are among the most affected, with hundreds of new infections reported in 2024 alone.
He encouraged young people to regularly test for HIV, use condoms consistently, and consider Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) where appropriate. PrEP, still being rolled out nationally, can prevent over 99% of infections when used correctly. Condoms, he added, remain “the most accessible, affordable, and immediately available protection,” and responsible use safeguards both individuals and the broader community.
Cross-border movement, particularly with neighboring Senegal, complicates efforts to control HIV. Seasonal workers, traders, and fishing communities often lack regular healthcare access, increasing the risk of transmission. Dr. Badjie called for stronger regional cooperation through joint clinics, shared surveillance, and mobile health services to ensure continuity of care for border populations.
He also stressed the importance of combating stigma, describing it as a learned barrier that can be overcome through education and community engagement. Faith leaders, families, and media outlets play 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 — only 64% of all people living with HIV know their status, he noted, leaving thousands at risk of unknowingly transmitting the virus.
Dr. Badjie called for faster access to testing, treatment, and prevention services, particularly for high-risk and key populations. “Prevention is not just policy — it is personal,” he said. “Every Gambian has a role in ending HIV. The next step is moving from moderate performance to true epidemic control, and it starts with informed, responsible action today.”