In a recent session of the National Assembly, ‘Mabafokeng Mpobole questioned the Minister of Health regarding the impact of reduced funding from the United States of America (USA) on Lesotho’s “Test and Treat” HIV and AIDS policy.
Minister of Health, Selibe Mochoboroane, responded by revealing that the suspension of funds by the USA has put 1,367 jobs at risk, including those of doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and counselors who are critical to providing HIV/AIDS-related services. He stated that M111,259,680 is required to ensure the continued employment of these essential workers.
Additionally, M69,992,499 is needed to procure testing commodities and medical oxygen. In total, the funding gap left by the US suspension amounts to M181,252,179.
Despite these financial challenges, the Minister assured the Assembly that the Ministry of Health will continue with the “Test and Treat” HIV/AIDS policy.
“This policy aims to detect new infections and ensure that individuals who test positive are encouraged to start treatment immediately. The goal is to provide medication early, preventing patients from developing severe illnesses and opportunistic diseases such as TB and cervical cancer,” he said.
Mochoboroane also indicated that Lesotho remains on track to achieve the 95-95-95 global targets. He reported that in 2023, the country had already achieved 95 percent, 94 percent, and 99 percent gains. He further stated that new HIV infections from November 1, 2024, to February 28, 2025, numbered 2,701.
The Minister emphasised that the USA funding suspension has not disrupted health services, and the ministry is taking measures to ensure that people living with HIV continue to receive blood testing and medication.
“These measures include ongoing health education and the involvement of the Lesotho Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS (LENPWHA), as well as network companies, in reminding individuals to attend health facilities through short messages (SMS). The Ministry will maintain the availability of HIV/AIDS treatment at the National Drug Service Organisation (NDSO) and continue with existing policies, including the provision of long-term (six-month) treatment.
“The budget for 2025/2026 includes the allocation of M268,306,602 for the procurement of ARVs,” he said.
Ntsoaki Motaung is an award-winning health journalist from Lesotho, specializing in community health stories with a focus on sexual and reproductive health and rights, as well as HIV. She has contributed to platforms like “Be in the KNOW,” highlighting issues such as the exclusion of people with disabilities from HIV prevention efforts in Lesotho.
In addition to her journalism, Ntsoaki serves as the Country Coordinator for the Regional Media Action Plan Support Network (REMAPSEN). She is also a 2023 CPHIA Journalism Fellow.
