Rwanda is set to begin trials with an HIV injection drug, which is regarded as a more improved and sustainable way of treatment, according to the head of the Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC).

If the drug successfully completes its trial, it means that HIV patients on antiretroviral (ARV) drugs will no longer have to take drugs on a daily basis.

Dr Sabin Nsanzimana says the injection lasts 8-weeks compared to the pill which is taken daily by HIV patients.

“Different sessions will be held including a specific session on the trial of the 8-week injection among others. We look forward to Rwanda gaining more from it.” Nsanzimana was quoted as saying by local publication, The New Times.

The trial drug is set to be discussed during the 20th International Conference on AIDS Sexually Transmitted Diseases in Africa (ICASA) which will be held in the Rwandan capital Kigali from December 1-7.

According to Dr Nsanzimana Rwanda was selected to host the biennial African conference as it scored favorably on reliable infrastructure, security, health, successful HIV-related programmes among other issues.

Researchers from all over the world are expected to share their findings on HIV, learn from each other’s expertise and develop new models to end the epidemic.

A community village programme which connects ICASA delegates and the general public will be held concurrently at the Kigali Conference and Exhibition Village.

According to the UN, new HIV infections in Rwanda dropped by 20% between 2010 and 2017 (9300 to 7400) while AIDS-related deaths reduced by almost 50 percent in the same period, (6000 to 3100).

Source: UNAids