Malawi’s HIV prevention champions have gathered at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe from July 17–18, 2025 to chart new pathways for HIV prevention amidst declining financial resources. The meeting, supported by the South-to-South Learning Network (SSLN), also focuses on advancing the use of the HIV Prevention Programme Planning Tool(3PT)
Since joining the SSLN in 2020, Malawi has been part of a cohort of 15 countries leveraging this global platform to strengthen HIV prevention through structured peer learning and cross-country collaboration.
“We must ensure our HIV prevention efforts are not only sustained but re-energised to meet today’s challenges”, said Maria Mensah, SSLN country engagement lead.
The gathering is not only about planning but about reimagining HIV prevention in a tough funding climate. Facilitators Maria Mensah and Kamogelo Nunu from the SSLN and Insights to implementation (i2i), respectively, are guiding the sessions, fostering exchange of experiences and innovations among participants.
The two-day meeting is aimed at; sharing updates on SSLN planning grant, share updates on Malawi national HIV prevention programme, developing HIV prevention plans in line with the current funding situation and to gather experiences and insights for a reimagined HIV prevention.
Chairing the proceedings, Dr. Andrina Mwansambo, Head of HIV Prevention and Management at the National AIDS Commission and Malawi’s SSLN Team Lead, emphasised resilience and adaptability.
She reminded participants of the importance of safeguarding the hard-won progress in HIV prevention, urging them to leverage peer learning opportunities to refine strategies and adapt to the changing funding landscape.
“Now more than ever, we need resilience to preserve our gains in the HIV response.”
— Dr. Andrina Mwansambo, Head of HIV Prevention and Management, NAC
Malawi’s involvement in the SSLN, an initiative of the Global HIV Prevention Coalition, underscores the country’s commitment to advancing HIV prevention through collaborative learning and innovation. In Malawi, SSLN activities are coordinated by the National AIDS Commission (NAC).
The SSLN continues to provide Malawi with a platform for exchange, inspiration, and strategic guidance as the country adapts its HIV prevention agenda to new realities.