20 May 2025

Botswana has reached a significant milestone in its national health efforts by achieving the gold tier certification for the path to elimination of Mother to Child Transmission (eMTCT) of HIV.

This recognition was announced by the World Health Organization (WHO) last Friday.

A press release from the Ministry of Health says the achievement is also significant because Botswana was the first HIV high burden country to receive the silver tier award in 2021 for the path to eMTCT of HIV.

“After receiving the Silver Tier Award, the country adopted the Global Triple Elimination Initiative for the elimination of Mother to Child Transmission of HIV, Syphilis and Hepatitis B,” says the media release.

The success was also a result of monitoring of HIV negative women to minimise seroconversion during the Postnatal and Breastfeeding period, including PrEP initiation and partner management.

The press release says there has been community engagement and awareness campaigns about eMTCT, reduction of stigma associated with HIV, and promotion of access to services.

“There has also been initiatives to promote human rights among Women Living with HIV and reducing Gender Based Violence. There is also free access to ART for non-citizens since 2019,” says the press release.

Speaking on Monday at the occasion to receive the award in Geneva, Switzerland, the Minister of Health, Dr Stephen Modise described the feat as a major milestone that demonstrates Botswana’s resolve in ending HIV.

“This achievement is a testament to the resilience and dedication of the people of Botswana, our healthcare workers, and our partners. Indeed we are on course to achieve an HIV free generation,” said Dr Modise. ENDS