International AIDS conference kicks off in Durban today

The conference will see thousands of delegates and over one thousand journalists in the city throughout the week.

This year's conference will look at the latest developments in HIV prevention and cure strategies with special attention on adolescents particularly young women and girls aged 15 to 24 who remain at high risk of infection.

Speaking ahead of the conference, Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa said while significant strides have been made in the fight against HIV and AIDS the epidemic continues to pose a great threat to human, social and economic development.

He said the eastern and southern African counties bare the biggest burden with nearly 20 million people living with HIV.

Ramaphosa's expressed his confidence in reaching the 2030 goal of an HIV free society.

He'll deliver an address at the official opening of the conference at Durban's Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre tonight.