HIV Infections: Regional Prevalence and Key Countries in Southern & Eastern Africa

The highest number of HIV infections have been reported in Southern and Eastern Africa. As of 2021, it was estimated that there were around 25.7 million people living with HIV in this region, which accounts for about 56% of the global total. The countries with the highest number of people living with HIV in this region include:

- South Africa (7.7 million)

- Nigeria (1.9 million)

- Kenya (1.5 million)

- Tanzania (1.4 million)

- Mozambique (1.3 million)

- Malawi (1.1 million)

The high prevalence of HIV in this region is due to several factors, including poverty, lack of education, stigma and discrimination, and limited access to healthcare services.