South Africa launches historic first-in-human HIV vaccine trial

South Africa has taken a major step forward in the fight against HIV, as Africa moves closer to a potential vaccine.

The first-in-human clinical trial of a new HIV vaccine has officially launched in Cape Town, marking a historic milestone for the continent.

South Africa has an estimated 8 million people living with HIV, making it the country with the largest epidemic.

The study was launched at the Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation at Groote Schuur Hospital.

The groundbreaking HIV trial has already enrolled its first group of 20 HIV-negative volunteers who will help scientists assess the safety and immune response of the vaccine.

Leading health researcher at Wits University, Professor Glenda Gray, said this early phase of the study was a critical step in the long and complex journey toward an effective HIV vaccine.

Gray said: “What we are trying to attain is called a functional cure so that the interventions we give keeps the virus at bay so you don't have to be on treatment”.

This breakthrough trial places Africa at the forefront of global HIV vaccine research.

In 2023, approximately 25.6 million people were living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa.

If it is successful, the study could bring renewed hope to millions across Africa and the world.