Morocco has recorded 22,600 HIV cases since the first diagnosis, with an annual increase of 1,000 new cases and around 400 deaths.
These figures were presented at a national conference held in Rabat on Thursday by the Association for the Fight Against AIDS (ALCS).
Professor Mehdi Karkouri, speaking to Barlaman, highlighted the persistence of HIV’s spread globally and stressed the importance of dispelling misconceptions surrounding the disease.
He emphasized that prevention remains a key challenge, and raising awareness is crucial to countering the stigma associated with HIV.
The participants discussed the pivotal role of ALCS in raising awareness and promoting prevention efforts across Morocco.
They also commended the nation’s progress in ensuring medical care for people living with HIV, noting that the disease is predominantly found in four regions: Souss-Massa, Marrakech-Safi, Casablanca-Settat, and Rabat-Salé.
Amina Kettani, representing the Ministry of Health and Social Protection’s Directorate of Epidemiology and Disease Control, shared further data: Morocco’s HIV prevalence rate stands at 0.08%, with about 22,600 total cases since the first was reported.
Efforts to mitigate the virus’s spread include educational campaigns and medical care services. However, the death toll remains concerning, with 400 deaths recorded annually.
The ALCS, established in 1988 by Professor Hakima Himmich and recognized as a public utility association in 1993, was the first organization in Morocco and the broader Middle East/North Africa region to combat HIV/AIDS.
In addition to awareness-raising campaigns, the organization provides medical and psychosocial support to those affected. ALCS is also a founding member of the International Coalition Against AIDS (Coalition PLUS).
The conference concluded with a call for the media to actively provide responsible, fact-based coverage of HIV actively, stressing the importance of professionalism, ethical standards, and societal responsibility in health journalism.