10 Dec 2023

Men’s low participation in HIV testing continues to be a concern.

According to surveys, men would rather rely on their partners to know their status. Given the status quo, Botswana Network of People Living with HIV and AIDS (BONEPWA+) official, Mr Gasekgale Moalosi has challenged men to change the stigma surrounding HIV testing which he said remained a barrier towards achieving the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Mr Moalosi was speaking during the World AIDS Day commemoration organised by BONEPWA in Hatsalatladi on Friday.

 “Men let us stop this stigma of being afraid to test. You should also learn to accompany your partners during the pre-natal check-ups to give them support,” he said.

He further explained that youth were the most vulnerable to HIV infection and advised them not to shy away from using protection.

He said it appeared a large population of youth was more afraid of pregnancy and the responsibility that comes with it than the virus. Mr Moalosi also advised the community to learn to be honest with their partners about their status. He advised all to test without fear to reduce cases of infection.

HIV/AIDS & Sexual health activist Ms Boikobo Kenosi shared her testimony as a person living with the virus for 24 years. She appreciated government efforts in the fight against HIV/AIDS by availing resources. She cited the Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission which she said was introduced at a time when she was expecting her child.

She further urged the youth to be cautious of their actions and said, “…to both girl and boy child, the ball is in your court, do what is right for you and not for the other people.”

Kgosi Sakie Gabanamotse of Hatsalatladi applauded BONEPWA saying the activities helped raise awareness.

The day was held under the theme: Let Communities Lead. Activities focused on among others statistics and what has been done to fight the virus. ENDS