FORECASTING HIV PREVALENCE AMONG INDIVIDUALS AGED 15-49 YEARS FOR MALI USING HOLT’S LINEAR METHOD

Abstract

This study uses annual time series data of HIV prevalence among individuals aged 15-49 years for Mali from 1990 to 2020 to predict future trends of HIV prevalence over the period 2021 to 2030. The study utilizes Holt’s linear exponential smoothing model. The optimal values of smoothing constants α and β are 0.9 and 0.1 respectively based on minimum MSE. The results of the study indicate that annual HIV prevalence among individuals aged 15-49 years will continue to decline over the out of sample period. Therefore, we encourage authorities to increase demand for HIV testing, prevention and treatment services among this age group. There is need to scale up HIV testing and prevention measures among key populations.