From 2014-15 and 2019-2020, South Sudan conducted the first ever and a subsequent Stigma Index Surveys, the surveys were conducted in the 10 states of South Sudan; mainly in the communities and health facilities across the country. The findings shed light on experiences of HIV related stigma and discrimination by people living with HIV. Most respondents felt that stigma and discrimination against People Living with HIV PLHIV was largely motivated by lack of correct knowledge and fear of infection.
The most common form of manifestation of stigma and discrimination include rejection by family, friends and community, reproductive rights abuse, avoidance and isolation, moral judgments and self-exclusion.
Stigma and discrimination associated with HIV/AIDS remain significant barriers to combating the disease in South Sudan. These social injustices not only affect the mental and physical well-being of individuals living with HIV but also undermine public health efforts aimed at prevention, testing, and treatment. Understanding the negative impact of HIV stigma and discrimination is essential for fostering a more inclusive, supportive, and health-conscious society.
Among the 10 states affected by high rate of stigma in South Sudan were Lake state (Yirol) and Eastern Equatoria State particularly Kapoeta, Magwi and Torit County among others., the rate of stigma and discrimination have been shown to have major negative impact on HIV care, treatment and support continuum; uptake of HIV prevention services and HCT; disclosure; care, treatment and support services; women and girls; and magnified effects among the socially vulnerable
With support from Global fund between 2016-2024, NEPWU scaled up effort to reached the civil population in parts of Eastern Equatoria State, Lake State, western Bahr-el-ghazal state among others and steered several awareness sessions on adverse impact of stigma and discrimination in the society and individual life, the session brought together Local Government officials, CSOs, Community Leaders, Community Members, PLHIV and the Key Population
Kapoeta South County coordinator of South Sudan Aid Commission Mr. Okot Daniel underscored that before Global fund intervention through NEPWU in Kapoeta, stigma and discrimination was high among PLHIV with others deserting their homes with depression while others quit their medication.
Following intensive awareness, the local government and local leaders established to work collectively and hold perpetrators of stigma accountable, conduct civic education through community gathering and hold series of radio talk-show to create awareness on danger of stigma and discrimination
The South Sudan Aid Commission Coordinator reiterate that “currently rate of stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDs in Kapoeta south is decreasing compared to the previous years back, this is all brought by the partnership of global fund, NEPWU and the government of South Sudan, we therefore urge NEPWU to continue supporting our locals, I believe continuous advocacy and awareness will yield fruit we want. We need environment where people live freely with stigma and discrimination”
The negative impact of HIV stigma and discrimination extends far beyond the individual, affecting communities and public health outcomes. By fostering a culture of empathy, education, and inclusivity, society can break down the barriers created by stigma and discrimination. Only then can we create an environment where individuals living with HIV are empowered to live healthy, fulfilling lives without fear or prejudice
As we strive for an HIV-free world, one of the greatest barriers remains stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV. misinformation, and prejudice continue to prevent individuals from seeking testing, treatment, and support—deepening the crisis rather than solving it, but we have the power to change this. By fostering compassion, spreading accurate information, and advocating for policies that protect the rights of those affected, we can create a world where HIV is no longer a source of shame or fear. Ending stigma isn’t just an act of kindness—it’s a necessity for public health, human rights, and social justice.
Let us stand together, challenge discrimination, and build communities where every person, regardless of their HIV status, is treated with dignity and respect. Because when we fight stigma, we bring hope, health, and healing to all.
With support from Global Fund through UNDP and other partners, NEPWU will continue to advocate for right of PLHIV, support them to overcome stigma and discrimination, conduct awareness through radio talk show to reach general population.
