The Top 10 Countries With The Highest HIV Prevalence | Report Shows

While global efforts against HIV have made strides, the virus remains a defining public health challenge in certain parts of the world. According to estimates as of 2024, South Africa continues to have the greatest number of HIV-positive individuals both in Africa and the world, with an estimated 7.8 million people living with the virus.

Which Country Has the Highest Number of People with HIV?

The ranking by total numbers paints a clear picture of where the epidemic is most concentrated:

• South Africa: 7.8 million
• Kenya: 7.49 million
• Mozambique: ~2.5 million
• Nigeria: ~2.2 million
• India: Over 2.5 million (Globally, second only to South Africa)
• Tanzania: 3.41 million
• Zimbabwe: 2.46 million

This list underscores the severe and disproportionate burden borne by nations in Southern and Eastern Africa.

Does Highest Number Mean Highest Prevalence?

Not necessarily. This is a critical distinction. Prevalence refers to the percentage of the total population that is affected.

• Eswatini has the highest HIV prevalence in the world, with almost 26% of its population living with the virus.
• While South Africa has the highest total number, its prevalence rate is about 18%, the third-highest globally.

This means that while South Africa has the largest absolute community of people needing care, an individual in Eswatini is statistically more likely to be living with HIV.

Where Are New Infections and Deaths Highest?

Tragically, South Africa also leads in the annual number of new infections. In 2024, South Africa recorded approximately 170,000 new HIV infections, the highest total number globally. Eswatini and Mozambique have the highest rate of new infections per 1,000 people.

Regarding mortality, AIDS remains a leading cause of death in Africa. In 2024, South Africa and Mozambique had the highest number of AIDS-related deaths worldwide, with 53,000 and 44,000 deaths, respectively.

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Is There a Path Forward?

Yes, and it is marked by significant progress in treatment access. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is a lifeline.

• Eswatini is a global leader here, with up to 94% of people living with HIV receiving ART.
• In South Africa, that figure is a strong 81%.

However, access is uneven. Just 34% of individuals are receiving treatment in regions like the Democratic Republic of the Congo, indicating areas that require immediate intervention.

The 2024 data reveals a dual reality: a pandemic still raging with fierce intensity in specific regions, alongside incredible success stories in treatment that offer a roadmap for finally ending AIDS as a public health threat.

Note: The analysis draws on reports from WHO, Development Aid, and Statista. TDG does not independently verify this data, as inputs are sourced from external organizations.