President Joseph Nyuma Boaka has issued an official proclamation declaring Monday, December 1, 2025, as World AIDS Day to be observed throughout the Republic of Liberia as a working holiday.
The declaration reaffirms the Government of Liberia’s commitment to the global fight against HIV and AIDS and honors the United Nations for its continued support in combating the epidemic.
World AIDS Day, observed annually on December 1, serves as a worldwide call to action-raising awareness about HIV, honoring the millions lost to AIDS-related illnesses, and showing solidarity with people living with or affected by HIV.
According to the proclamation, Liberia has continued to confront significant public health challenges posed by HIV since the global outbreak was first identified in 1981.
Despite progress in expanding prevention, testing, and treatment, the country continues to grapple with a generalized epidemic. National survey data show an HIV prevalence rate of 2.1% among the reproductive-age population, with an estimated 36,000 Liberians currently living with HIV.
Urban areas record a higher prevalence rate (2.6%) than rural regions (0.8%), and Montserrado, Margibi, and Grand Bassa counties collectively bear nearly 70% of the national burden.
President Boakai emphasized the importance of strengthening health systems, improving access to services, reducing stigma, and safeguarding human rights as Liberia adapts to emerging challenges in its HIV response.
This year’s observance will be held on the grounds of the Capitol Building in Monrovia under the global theme “Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response” and the national theme “Mobilizing Domestic Support, Transforming the AIDS Response.” President Boakai is expected to serve as the keynote speaker for the national ceremony.
The proclamation calls on citizens, government institutions, civil society groups, youth organizations, traditional and religious leaders, and international partners to collaborate with the National AIDS Commission in organizing programs to commemorate the day.
The document was issued under the hand of President Boakai and attested to by Mme. Sara Beysolow Nyanti, Minister of Foreign Affairs, on November 28, 2025, marking Liberia’s 179th year of independence.
As the nation prepares for the 2025 observance, the government urges all Liberians to unite in reaffirming their commitment to ending HIV as a public health threat and supporting individuals and communities affected by the epidemic.
