More than 50 000 people in eastern and southern Africa received HIV testing and counselling services as part of national campaigns held between 17 and 30 November. On 1 December, World AIDS Day, countries unveiled the number of people tested during the campaigns, which took place in Botswana, Ethiopia, Lesotho, Namibia, South Africa and United Republic of Tanzania.
While the campaigns sought to reach the general population, some countries focused on reaching populations at higher risk of HIV infection, including young people, women and migrants.
Ethiopia held a one-day campaign in Gambella, which has the highest HIV prevalence in the country, at 6.5%, according to the 2011 Ethiopian Demographic Survey. Botswana provided HTC services at 10 testing sites in Maun District, with a special focus on couples and young people. Lesotho undertook a two-week nationwide campaign focusing on young people, migrants, men and traditional healers. Namibia held the testing in Katutura—a township of the capital Windhoek—to reach underserved communities in informal settlements.
Communities, non-profit organizations and national partners supported the campaigns by mobilizing communities, procuring test kits or distributing HIV information materials and commodities. The campaigns also ensured that people who tested positive for HIV were referred and linked to HIV treatment and care services.
The number of people tested during the campaigns reaffirms the strong commitment of countries to accelerate community action and galvanize the active involvement of young people and networks of people living with HIV to end the AIDS epidemic by 2030.
“Our efforts to ending the AIDS epidemic in this region will not be successful if people do not know their HIV status. Voluntary HIV testing and counselling is the starting point that will get countries to zero new HIV infections, zero discrimination and zero AIDS-related deaths.”
Sheila Tlou, Director, UNAIDS Regional Support Team for Eastern and Southern Africa
“Today is our one month anniversary and we both tested negative for HIV. This has been a perfect anniversary present for both of us. Our status will allow us to move forward in our relationship with trust and protecting each other.”
Prudence, 25, and Thabiso, 27, a couple at the Union Building HIV testing site in Pretoria, South Africa
“I wanted to know my HIV status for some time now but I have always been too afraid. I have been engaged in unprotected sex with my partner, who told me that I should get tested for the both of us. Now that I know my status, I will tell my partner, my friends and family to come and get tested as well.”
Magano, at a testing site in Katutura informal settlement, Windhoek, Namibia
“I just found out that I have HIV. It seems I have a new life and I cannot change my result. But I am determined to lead a healthy life for me, my child and my husband.”
Nyanhial Gach, a 22-year-old mother, at Gamebella Stadium testing site, Gambella, Ethiopia
