Cameroon Population-Based HIV Impact Assessment (CAMPHIA 2024) was officially launched in the Northwest Region on August 28, 2024. The event, presided over by Governor Adolphe Lele L’Afrique, brought together regional health stakeholders to kickstart the survey.

Purpose of the Launch

As outlined by Professor Tih Pius Muffih, CAMPHIA 2024 Country Director, the launch aimed to:

• Inform regional authorities: Announce the commencement of fieldwork and emphasize its importance.
• Identify key stakeholders: Bring together essential individuals for the survey process.
• Secure regional support: Encourage active participation from all stakeholders.

HIV Prevalence in the Northwest Region

Dr. Che Soh Kingsley, Regional Delegate for Health, highlighted the global HIV pandemic’s impact, noting that Sub-Saharan Africa, including Cameroon, has been disproportionately affected. According to the 2018 demographic and health survey, the Northwest Region’s HIV prevalence was estimated at 4%, exceeding the national average of 2.7%.

CAMPHIA’s Role

The CAMPHIA 2024 survey aims to:

• Assess Cameroon’s national HIV response: Evaluate the effectiveness of current strategies.
• Inform policy improvements: Shape future policies to address HIV challenges.

Regional Support and Commitment

The Regional Delegate called upon all health stakeholders to collaborate with CAMPHIA data collectors and assured them of necessary support. Governor Adolphe Lele L’Afrique pledged the region’s full support, emphasizing the government’s commitment to combating HIV.

Key Points and Outcomes

• US Government Funding: The CAMPHIA survey is funded by the US Government through PEPFAR.
• Data Collection: The survey will involve visiting 17 enumeration areas and 600 households in the Northwest Region.
• Security Measures: The region has implemented security measures to ensure the safety of field staff.
• Data Management: The National Institute of Statistics and the Ministry of Public Health are overseeing data collection and management.
• Public Engagement: The Governor urged the population to welcome survey teams and encouraged community leaders and media to disseminate information about the survey.

CAMPHIA’s Significance

Cameroon’s participation in CAMPHIA is crucial for:

• Improving HIV response: Gathering data to inform effective strategies.
• Strengthening national capacity: Building expertise in implementing PHIA surveys.
• Advancing global health: Contributing to global efforts to combat HIV.

The successful launch of CAMPHIA 2024 in the Northwest Region marks a significant step towards addressing HIV challenges and improving the health of the region’s population.