The power of key-population-led HIV programming: Achievements of the LINKAGES project at a glance

Key populations include men who have sex with men, transgender people, sex workers, people who inject drugs, and their sexual partners. These groups are disproportionately affected by HIV due to various social, economic, and cultural factors. The project focused on providing comprehensive HIV services, including testing, treatment, and prevention, to key populations in 10 countries: Bangladesh, Burundi, Ethiopia, Kenya, Lesotho, Mozambique, Myanmar, South Sudan, Uganda, and Zambia. The project also aimed to reduce stigma and discrimination against key populations, promoting their inclusion in HIV programming and services. Key achievements of the LINKAGES project include a 45% increase in the number of key population members accessing HIV testing services, a 30% increase in the number of key population members on antiretroviral therapy, and a 25% increase in the number of key population members using condoms. The project also reported a 50% increase in the number of key population-led organizations providing HIV services. The project's success can be attributed to its key-population-led approach, which empowered key populations to take ownership of their HIV response. This approach involved working closely with key population leaders and organizations to design and implement HIV programs that met the unique needs of their communities. The project also provided technical assistance and capacity-building support to key population-led organizations, enabling them to provide high-quality HIV services. The LINKAGES project's achievements demonstrate the importance of key-population-led HIV programming in reducing HIV infections and improving the health and well-being of key populations. The project's success also highlights the need for continued investment in key-population-led HIV programming, particularly in countries with high HIV burdens and limited resources.