Ministry of Health Representative Attends 26th International AIDS Conference in Rio de Janeiro

The Ministry of Health and Human Services is pleased to announce that Dr. Camelia Clarke, Director of the Health Promotion and Advocacy Unit, represented the Turks and Caicos Islands at the 26th International AIDS Conference AIDS 2026 held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from 26–31 July 2026.

Dr. Camelia Clarke, Director Health Promotion and Advocacy Unit at conference presentation.

Held under the theme “Rethink. Rebuild. Rise.”, the conference brought together healthcare professionals, researchers, policymakers, community organisations and development partners from around the world to examine the future of the global response to HIV. The programme featured more than 150 sessions and thousands of research presentations addressing developments in HIV prevention, treatment, care and support.

AIDS 2026 was convened at a critical time, as many countries face reductions in HIV-related funding while also benefiting from major scientific and technological advances. Discussions underscored the importance of sustainable financing, strong political leadership, meaningful community engagement and integrated healthcare systems to maintain progress towards ending HIV as a public health threat.

A major focus of the conference was the advancement of Triple Elimination and the Elimination of Vertical Transmission of HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B. These discussions were particularly relevant to the Turks and Caicos Islands following the country’s recent World Health Organization validation for the Elimination of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV and hepatitis B. This achievement reflects the country’s commitment to protecting maternal and child health and strengthening HIV prevention, treatment and care services.

The conference also highlighted advances in long-acting HIV prevention and treatment options, the expanding role of artificial intelligence and digital health technologies, and the importance of person-centred and community-led approaches to healthcare delivery. Presentations further demonstrated that integrating HIV services with maternal and child health, sexual and reproductive health, tuberculosis, hepatitis and other health programmes can improve outcomes and contribute to stronger and more resilient health systems.

Minister of Health and Human Services, Hon. Kyle Knowles, welcomed the Ministry’s participation in the conference and stated:

“The Turks and Caicos Islands is proud of the significant progress we have made in HIV prevention and maternal and child health, including our recent World Health Organization validation for the Elimination of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV and hepatitis B. AIDS 2026 highlighted both the challenges and opportunities facing the global HIV response and provided valuable insights into emerging research, innovative technologies, community-led approaches and sustainable strategies for strengthening health systems. The knowledge gained from the conference will help inform our continued efforts to sustain our achievements, strengthen HIV prevention and care services, and advance equitable, people-centred healthcare for all residents.”

L-R Dr. Nyla Lyons-Medical Research Foundation, Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. Camelia Clarke, Dr. Tricia Campbell- Aids Healthcare Foundation, Jamaica at Conference Poster Presentations.

Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Nadia Astwood, also highlighted the importance of applying the lessons from the conference to the national HIV response:

“Participation in AIDS 2026 provided an important opportunity for the Turks and Caicos Islands to remain informed about emerging evidence, scientific advances and international best practices in HIV prevention, treatment and care. As we celebrate our recent validation for the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and hepatitis B, we must remain focused on sustaining this achievement through strong surveillance, accessible testing and treatment, integrated services and continued engagement with affected communities. The information and partnerships gained through this conference will support our efforts to further strengthen the national HIV response.”

The Ministry of Health and Human Services remains committed to strengthening HIV prevention, testing, treatment, care and support services, while promoting equitable access to healthcare and protecting the health and well-being of all residents of the Turks and Caicos Islands.