Embodying HIV/AIDS adolescent peer leadership and achieving the 95-95-95 targets in Ghana

Adolescents and young adults aged 15–24 years constitute a priority population in the global HIV response. Mitigating high-risk sexual practices is essential for reducing transmission, while sustained HIV management and adherence require psychosocial support and youth-centred resources. Community adolescent treatment supporters (CATS) work with healthcare professionals in Kumasi, Ghana, to support their peers living with HIV by navigating their diagnoses, taking daily HIV medication and supporting them through the challenges they encounter. This study explores the embodied experiences of CATS in Kumasi, Ghana and examines how peer leadership contributes to achieving the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS 95-95-95 targets. A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews was conducted with peer adolescents (n = 18) living with HIV, CATS (n = 6) and key informants (n = 7) from antiretroviral clinics in the Kumasi Metropolitan Area. CATS reported positive character development and satisfaction in supporting their communities. They also experienced challenges such as HIV-related stigma and resistance from peers’ caregivers. Despite this, CATS provided education, psychosocial support and medication reminders while serving as role models. The findings suggest that CATS plays an instrumental role in supporting the 95-95-95 targets, underscoring the potential for peer leadership programs to close gaps in adolescent HIV care.