The Minister of Finance, Dr. Moeketsi Majoro recently disclosed during the budget speech that the move aims to increase the coverage of Anti-Retroviral Treatment (ART) while reducing incidences. He also stated that the ministry will further increase targeted HIV testing and services to key populations. The Ministry was allocated M2.4 billion during the 2018/2019 fiscal year budget estimates earlier this month which by far covers 11 percent of the national budget and constituting the next largest portion after Education.
A statement issued by Avec has on the other hand indicated that the Seo Project featuring a network of people with HIV and allies fighting for freedom from stigma and injustice, is particularly focused on ending inappropriate criminal prosecutions of people with HIV, including for non-disclosure of their HIV status, potential or perceived HIV exposure or HIV transmission.
While the Ministry of Health strives to continue providing increasing multi-month antiretroviral dispensing to allow Basotho employed both locally and in South Africa enough medication to cover three to six months, HIV-positive people who are involved in HIV networks find support, purpose, strength to combat stigma, and a better quality of life, Avec has revealed.
