Botswana is making strides in combating HIV/AIDS through a comprehensive review of its National HIV Testing Services (HTS) Guidelines, conducted with support from the World Health Organization (WHO). The mission, spanning multiple sessions from June to September 2024, is a collaborative effort to align Botswana’s HIV testing strategies with the latest global recommendations, ensuring more targeted and effective intervention. 

Since 2005, Botswana has periodically updated its HIV testing guidelines to incorporate new approaches and technologies. The latest review emphasizes innovations such as, social media-driven testing campaigns, Index contact testing (ICT), HIV self-testing (HIVST), Optimized provider-initiated testing and counselling (PITC) and Integration of HIV testing with syphilis and hepatitis screening. The mission also focuses on transitioning to the WHO-recommended Triple Testing Algorithm, which enhances diagnostic accuracy for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B. While the review is ongoing, significant progress has been made in evaluating service delivery models, accessibility, and the suitability of current policies. A key focus is addressing gaps in reaching key and vulnerable populations, particularly in underserved geographic areas.

This initiative demonstrates Botswana's unwavering commitment to combating HIV/AIDS through evidence-based policies and international collaboration. By adopting innovative tools and methodologies, the country aims to strengthen health systems and improve outcomes for all. The finalization of the revised guidelines is expected to pave the way for more effective, inclusive, and sustainable HIV prevention and testing strategies. The workshops, held in Gaborone, Palapye, and Francistown, brought together participants from the Ministry of Health, Botswana Medicines Regulatory Authority (BoMRA), district health teams, and international experts. Facilitators from WHO regional offices and the Uppsala Monitoring Centre guided discussions on critical topics, including, Integrated testing service delivery, Demand creation and community engagement, Test kit supply chain management, Monitoring, and evaluation frameworks.