Despite this, Zambia has been cited as one of the few success stories of the AIDS response. It has halted the spread of HIV, with the prevalence rate remaining more or less constant since 20048.

One of the reasons for this success is the political commitment from Zambian leaders. As an example, the former President, Kenneth Kaunda lost a son to AIDS in the late 1980s and, since leaving office, has continued to show leadership by speaking out openly about AIDS and with compassion for people living with HIV.

Contributing factors to the high burden of HIV in Zambia include poverty, social and economic inequities, gender imbalances and cultural norms and beliefs Only an estimated 27% of those in need of antiretroviral treatment in 2006 actually received it. Children (who represent 10% of all people living with HIV/AIDS in Zambia) have particularly limited access to AIDS treatment10. In addition, only 4% of women needing ART received treatment to prevent mother-to-child transmission.

The Zambian National AIDS Policy provides the most meaningful framework for holding government accountable to their promises on AIDS. Yet, despite sustained pressure from civil society, this policy, drafted in 2001, was only adopted in 2005.

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