Trends in new HIV infections among young people (15–24) in Africa: a retrospective comparative analysis from 2010 to 2024

There is an urgent need to address the disproportionate impact of HIV on adolescents and young adults in Africa. The present study evaluated the long-term trend and variation of new HIV infection rates among those aged between 15 and 24 years. Data on new infection rates from 2010 to 2024 were obtained from the WHO Global Health Observatory. The retrospective comparative analysis confirmed a declining trend at an appreciable pace from 2010 to 2024. The analysis also revealed remarkable strides some countries have made in reducing new HIV infections among youth. It highlighted struggling cases encountered on the continent during the period. Countries with stable and unpredictable fluctuations in the rate of new infections were identified. Examining this past data and its influence provides insight that guides policies and health behaviors in reducing the incidence of new HIV cases in the future.