Papua New Guinea (PNG) faces a daunting challenge with a 101% increase in new HIV infections since 2010, which demands a bold and comprehensive response, one that is both innovative and inclusive. These were the remarks made by Ms. Manoela Manova, Country Director, UNAIDS PNG at the launching of the National HIV and STI Strategy 2024-2028 on Friday 30th August at the Holiday Inn Hotel, Port Moresby city. “As we stand on the cusp of launching the National HIV and STI Strategy 2024-2028, it is imperative to reflect on the journey that has brought us here and the path that lies ahead.” Ms. Manova highlighted that this is a wakeup call because of the alarming rise in HIV infections in the country. “It is a wake-up call for all of us, it underscores the urgent need for a renewed commitment to tackling this epidemic head-on.” “While global progress has been made in reducing HIV transmission, our country has lagged, and the consequences are dire.” She stated that since 2010, new infections have doubled, and sadly on a single day in 2023, an estimated 18 new infections, and 2 children born with HIV, therefore the National HIV and STI Strategy 2024-2028 is our roadmap to reversing this trend and achieving the 95-95-95 global HIV targets by 2025. One of the most significant aspects of the new strategy is its emphasis on community involvement. The fight against HIV cannot be won in isolation because it requires the collective effort of government, healthcare providers, civil society, and, most importantly, the communities most affected by the epidemic. “By engaging local communities in the design and implementation of HIV prevention and treatment programs, we can ensure that our interventions are culturally sensitive, relevant, and effective.” “Innovation is at the heart of the National HIV and STI Strategy 2024-2028, thus we must leverage new technologies and methodologies to enhance the effectiveness of our interventions.” Manova highlighted that this includes scaling up education and awareness campaigns, improving access to antiretroviral therapy, and eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV. She added that by embracing innovation, they can overcome the barriers that have hindered progress and move closer to ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. “The launch of this strategy is not just a policy announcement; it is a call to action, it is a call for every sector of society to join in the fight against HIV.” She said it is a call for sustained effort, unwavering commitment, and collective action, therefore everyone must play their part in ensuring that no one is left behind in the fight against HIV. “As we embark on this new chapter, we do so with a sense of hope and determination, the National HIV and STI Strategy 2024-2028 represents a bold step forward in our fight against HIV.” “It is a testament to our resilience, our commitment, and our unwavering belief that we can and will overcome this epidemic.” She stressed that the journey ahead will not be easy, but it is a journey worth taking and all must move forward with courage, with conviction, and with the knowledge that together, everyone can make a difference.