The 2018 Rakai Health Sciences Program (RHSP) status report marks 30 years since its inception as the Rakai Project, highlighting significant achievements over the past three years. RHSP restructured into three directorates in 2015 to enhance its research and service portfolio. In 2016, the program received a PEPFAR CDC grant, expanding its HIV prevention, care, and treatment services to the Masaka region, increasing staff to 725. A landmark study published in 2017 demonstrated a 42% reduction in HIV incidence through scaled-up circumcision and treatment efforts.
The Rakai Community Cohort Study (RCCS) continued its extensive HIV surveillance, and the Safe Male Circumcision (SMC) program provided vital services and training. RHSP remains committed to community engagement, research, and health service provision, with gratitude extended to its community, staff, leadership, and funders.