PNG Declares HIV Crisis as 11,000 New Infections Surface
"Health authorities estimate 30 new HIV infections occur daily, including seven babies born with the virus."
Papua New Guinea (PNG) declared a national HIV crisis in June 2025 following the detection of 11,000 new infections in 2024 alone. Official figures report over 120,000 people living with HIV, though health experts believe the true number is significantly higher due to widespread testing gaps.
UNAIDS identifies sex workers, men who have sex with men, and transgender people as particularly vulnerable to the epidemic.
Voices from the Frontline
Sylvia Pok (pseudonym), a female sex worker for over a decade, reports earning 200-300 PNG kina ($60-95) per client to cover rent and food. "Frequent attacks from clients," she says, are a daily hazard of the trade.
Treena (pseudonym), a transgender sex worker with more than 20 years in the industry, admits to sometimes accepting unprotected sex for higher payments—a stark illustration of the economic pressures driving risk.
The Real Barrier: Stigma
Health Minister Elias Kapavore has stated that "stigma is no longer an issue," a claim sharply contradicted by sex workers and advocates.
Treena described unfriendly treatment at some clinics.
Melanie Palili, executive director of Igat Hope, emphasized that stigma remains a critical barrier to care, preventing many from seeking testing and treatment.
Funding Crisis & New Commitments
PNG suffered a major blow when it lost most USAID funding in 2025 under the Trump administration. However, new funding streams have emerged:
- Australia increased its annual HIV development funding to nearly $10 million.
- The US signed a memorandum of understanding to provide $15 million through 2030.
- Minister Kapavore reported the PNG government allocated 26 million kina ($8.2 million) for HIV programs in 2025.
Health Facilities on the Brink
Mary Kenwai, sister in charge of the Anglican Health Centre in Waigani, reports dire conditions:
"The clinic relies on unsafe bore water and needs major renovations."
Staff are underpaid and sometimes volunteer in hazardous conditions, despite the center serving over 1,000 patients monthly.