Karaganda Region: 96% of People Living with HIV Have a Suppressed Viral Load

November 12, 2025

On the eve of World AIDS Day, observed on 1 December, the Karaganda Regional AIDS Centre has reported strong results in HIV treatment, prevention and testing. These achievements have been made possible thanks to the coordinated work of a multidisciplinary team of specialists, as well as collaboration with non-governmental organizations supporting people living with HIV.

In the region, 92% of people living with HIV are receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART); among those on treatment, 96% have a suppressed viral load; and 99.9% of pregnant women have been tested for HIV. The HIV prevalence rate among people aged 15–49 is 0.79% (below the threshold level of 0.90%), confirming the effectiveness of preventive measures.

World AIDS Day serves as an important opportunity to highlight the resilience of countries and communities that are stepping up their efforts to safeguard progress and strengthen the HIV response. The theme of World AIDS Day 2025 is “From Challenges to Transformations in the HIV Response.”

“Kazakhstan continues to actively develop its programmes supported by public funding. This enables us to provide people living with HIV with the necessary treatment, conduct regular testing, and expand prevention measures, which has led to a significant decline in HIV prevalence,” said Beibit Sagimbayev, Director of the Karaganda Regional AIDS Centre.

“Positive trends are also evident in collaboration with non-governmental organizations working to protect the rights of people living with HIV. The government continues to strengthen its support, ensuring the stability and further development of prevention initiatives,” added Ainur Nupinova, Head of the Karaganda Association “Doverie” (Trust).

Traditionally, in the lead-up to World AIDS Day, an information campaign engages young people, civil society activists and volunteers.

As part of this year’s activities, the Karaganda Regional AIDS Centre has announced a creative contest among students to produce short videos on HIV prevention and the unacceptability of stigma towards people living with HIV. Planned events also include volleyball tournaments among high school students to promote healthy lifestyles, and an awareness event titled “HIV-party” featuring people living with HIV, public figures and specialists from the AIDS Centre—aimed at encouraging young audiences to be mindful of their choices and take responsibility for their health.

In addition, the campaign will include prevention drives, lectures and interactive meetings to increase public awareness about HIV.

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