CCA Commemorates World Aids Day 2020 - Message from the CEO

World AIDS Day is an international reminder of the journey we have travelled in the fight against HIV/AIDS. The day is also a continuous call to the world to continue in its efforts against the epidemic. This year, the theme for World AIDS day is: “Global Solidarity, Resilient Services.”

In line with this theme, I want us to recognise two critical matters being: the role that each of one of us plays in limiting the spread of HIV/AIDS, and the growth in the diversity of HIV/AIDS services in Botswana. There was a time when the epidemic severely challenged Botswana with high infection rates and a high number of cases and deaths. However, with the support of the world, we managed to stem the tide and have fewer cases and deaths. 

It is with this memory that I want us to appreciate ourselves and our efforts at limiting the spread of HIV and AIDS. That, notwithstanding, HIV/AIDS remains a threat. According to the UN, in 2019, Botswana had 380,000 people living with HIV, representing a 20.7% adult HIV prevalence. In the same year, there were 9,500 new HIV infections and 5,000 AIDS-related deaths.

Our efforts to protect ourselves from getting infected or re-infected, our efforts to keep viral loads down and avoid opportunistic infections, our efforts to empower our loved ones to prevent infections and live positively – all these are commendable efforts that we undertake in our homes and communities without recognition or praise. 

Today, I want us to appreciate ourselves and each other for this work. 

It is gratifying to know that we are not alone in this fight. There has been much growth in the diversity of services available to us and our loved ones. There are new strategies and new service providers who assist with prevention, research, anti-retroviral therapy, psychosocial support for youth and marginalised groups, and programmes against GBV and substance abuse. For more information on such services please visit local clinics and service providers such as Tebelopele and BONEPWA. 

This year's World AIDS Day also comes when the world is facing a new health concern in the form of the Covid-19 pandemic. Let us play our part in limiting the spread of this disease as well.