THPS Showcases Innovation and Leadership at CROI 2026

THPS’s commitment to supporting the Government of Tanzania’s efforts to end HIV as a public health threat by 2030 was showcased at the 33rd Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (CROI 2026), held February 22–25, 2026, in Denver, Colorado, USA.

Representing THPS, an organization that partners with the Government to strengthen HIV prevention, care and treatment services, Dr. Mwedi Mohamed, HIV Testing, Prevention & Linkage Coordinator, presented evidence and program experiences from THPS-supported interventions in Pwani region, Tanzania.

Widely regarded as one of the world’s most influential scientific meetings on HIV and related infectious diseases, CROI brings together leading researchers, clinicians, policymakers, and public health practitioners to share cutting-edge evidence that informs global strategies for HIV prevention, treatment, and care.

Community-Driven Innovation to Expand HIV Prevention

During the conference, Dr. Mohamed presented a poster titled: “Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Champion Strategy Improved Uptake Among Most-at-Risk Population in Pwani Region of Tanzania.”

This initiative highlighted a THPS-supported community-centred model designed to address persistent barriers to HIV prevention among populations at elevated risk of infection. By empowering trusted community members as “PrEP champions,” the strategy raises awareness, reduces stigma, builds trust, and supports individuals to initiate and continue using PrEP, a highly effective intervention that prevents HIV acquisition.

The findings demonstrate that locally grounded, peer-led approaches can significantly improve uptake of prevention services among groups that are often underserved by conventional health systems. The model offers valuable lessons for scaling up PrEP programs in Tanzania and other high-burden settings.

Strengthening the Evidence Base for HIV Response in Tanzania

In addition to his primary presentation, Dr. Mohamed also presented two scientific posters developed through collaboration with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Tanzania:

Recent HIV Infection and Associated Factors Among Newly Diagnosed Clients in Routine Testing Services, Tanzania

This study examined patterns of recent HIV infection among individuals newly diagnosed through routine testing services. Understanding who is acquiring HIV, and under what circumstances, is essential for targeting prevention interventions, identifying transmission hotspots, and interrupting ongoing spread of the virus.

Drug Resistance and HIV Viral Load in Unsuppressed Clients on Dolutegravir, Tanzania, 2023

As Tanzania continues to scale up dolutegravir-based treatment regimens, this initiative provides critical insights into treatment outcomes among clients whose viral load remains unsuppressed. The findings contribute to efforts to detect drug resistance early, optimize treatment regimens, and strengthen adherence support systems to ensure long-term treatment success.

Together, these studies reflect THPS’s emphasis on data-driven programming and continuous improvement of HIV services in collaboration with government and development partners.

Addressing the Broader Challenges Shaping the HIV Response

Beyond scientific advances, CROI 2026 also featured discussions on the wider forces influencing global HIV efforts. Sessions explored evolving funding landscapes, equitable access to prevention and treatment, health system constraints, and structural barriers, including stigma, discrimination, and socioeconomic challenges, that continue to affect vulnerable populations.

These conversations are highly relevant to organizations like THPS that work at the interface of communities, health systems, and policy, supporting the Government of Tanzania to translate global evidence into practical solutions on the ground.

Elevating Tanzania’s Voice in the Global Scientific Community

Dr. Mohamed’s participation underscores THPS’s growing role in generating and sharing implementation evidence from real-world programs. By presenting findings from THPS-supported interventions at an international scientific forum, the organization contributes to global knowledge while bringing back insights that can strengthen national programs.

Participation in CROI also fosters collaboration, knowledge exchange, and partnerships that are essential for accelerating progress toward epidemic control.

Moving Closer to Ending HIV as a public health threat by 2030

The presence of THPS at CROI 2026 reflects the organization’s unwavering commitment to supporting the Government of Tanzania in achieving national and global HIV targets.

From innovative prevention strategies to strengthened treatment outcomes, THPS continues to demonstrate that impactful solutions emerge when science, community engagement, and strong partnerships work together.

Through evidence, collaboration, and sustained commitment, THPS remains a key partner in the journey toward ending HIV as a public health threat by 2030.