Recap of PeCHIVReT’s Activities at #INTEREST2024 

The International Conference on HIV Treatment, Pathogenesis, and Prevention Research (INTEREST) 2024, held from May 14th–17th at the Palais des Congrès in Cotonou, Benin, was a landmark event for the Person-Centered HIV Research Team (PeCHIVReT). This premier conference for HIV research in Africa offered an unparalleled platform to showcase our commitment to advancing person-centered HIV research and prevention strategies. 

Day 1: Laying the Groundwork for Innovation 

PeCHIVReT kicked off the conference with strong representation during the opening ceremony and the engaging session by Ifedayo Adetifa on global disease outbreaks. Highlights included the presentation of poster abstracts by PeCHIVReT co-principal investigator Gabriel Ezenri, showcasing three impactful abstracts on innovative approaches to HIV prevention and care. The day also featured the debate session, “PEPFAR and the Global Fund Should Expand Their Missions Now to Fund Screening, Prevention, and Treatment of Non-Communicable Diseases,” where we contributed thought-provoking arguments on the importance of integrated care models. The day concluded with an opening reception, where we strengthened collaborations with global leaders in HIV research. 

Day 2: Amplifying Prevention Strategies 

PeCHIVReT’s participation in Day 2 was marked by mentorship sessions and expert-led discussions. A standout was the mentorship session with Dr. Nyaradzo Mgodi, which offered invaluable insights into building a career in HIV research and advocacy. PeCHIVReT members attended sessions on HIV prevention strategies, including Linda-Gail Bekker’s impactful talk on innovative community-based prevention methods. Poster presentations during breaks provided opportunities to engage with fellow researchers, exchange ideas, and receive constructive feedback. Discussions on vertical HIV transmission and vaccine development were especially relevant to PeCHIVReT’s focus on prevention among vulnerable populations. 

Day 3: Contributions to Pediatric and Adolescent HIV Research 

On Day 3, PeCHIVReT team members AbdulMuminu Isah and Chukwuemeka Nwachuya presented their abstracts on HIV interventions in key populations. These presentations showcased our ongoing research on improving HIV outcomes for children and adolescents in resource-limited settings. Sessions on HIV & co-morbidities, including cervical cancer, provided insights that align with our efforts to develop comprehensive healthcare interventions for people living with HIV. Linda-Gail Bekker’s inspiring session further reinforced the importance of community-driven solutions in achieving equitable healthcare. 

Day 4: Closing with Momentum 

The final day of INTEREST 2024 brought the conference to a powerful conclusion. Parallel sessions on the intersection of HIV prevention and treatment highlighted the need for cohesive approaches to healthcare delivery. Networking opportunities were invaluable, with PeCHIVReT members engaging with researchers like Prof. Amara E. Ezeamama, whose expertise in HIV research provided actionable insights for scaling up person-centered interventions. 

Key Takeaways for PeCHIVReT 

1. Advancing Research: PeCHIVReT’s presentations reinforced our position as thought leaders in person-centered HIV prevention research. 

2. Building Collaborations: The conference facilitated connections with global researchers and funders, opening doors for future partnerships. 

3. Strengthening Capacity: Mentorship and training sessions enriched our skills in research dissemination, advocacy, and implementation science. 

PeCHIVReT is committed to translating the knowledge and networks gained at INTEREST 2024 into actionable strategies to address HIV in Africa, with a renewed focus on person-centered care and prevention for underserved populations. 

Let’s build on this momentum as we prepare for #INTEREST2025!