11 Jul 2017

Public Health Specialist, Dr Bornapate Nkomo has emphasised the importance of regular HIV testing and taking medication after being diagnosed. 

Speaking during the Treat All Awareness walk in Gaborone, Dr Nkomo said people needed to be educated more about the importance of testing for HIV. 

He further said campaigns were necessary in closing the gaps in the health system, adding that the Ministry of Health and Wellness welcomed the support of stakeholders who helped in the fight against HIV/AIDS. 

He noted that the only way to achieve health goals in communities was to provide education. 

“Getting the right health messages to the right people is still one of the challenges that the ministry of health faces”, he said. 

For his part, the director at Thusang Bana Centre, Mr Stanley Monageng also shared the sentiments, saying people should be sensitised about the importance of testing and be encouraged to take medication as prescribed by doctors. 

“We expect people to test for HIV and take medication as required. The Treat All programme enables HIV-positive people to take ARVs immediately after getting their results,” he said. 

‘’I am HIV positive, but I still live a positive life and through this Treat All Awareness Walk, I wanted to show people that they too can live a positive life. If you take treatment, you can be able to live a long life,” he said. 

Mr Monageng further said he went for check-ups regularly and he urged other HIV positive people to do the same. 

For her part, Ms Boitshepo Rice who is a motivational speaker at Thusang Bana Centre said it was important for individuals to change their behaviour. 

She urged attendants to take care of themselves and take their medication religiously.  ENDS