Clinical trials are crucial for advancing HIV treatment and prevention, offering vital insights that refine HIV management. In Botswana, the Botswana Harvard Health Partnership (BHP) and other research entities play a central role in conducting these trials. Types of HIV Trials Treatment Trials : These trials systematically assess new drugs and therapies. They begin by focusing on safety and effectiveness, progressing to later stages to confirm findings in larger groups. The advancements in antiretroviral therapy, which have significantly reduced side effects and improved quality of life for those with HIV, underscore the importance of these trials. Prevention Trials : Critical for reducing HIV transmission, these trials test strategies such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and vaccines. Despite challenges in vaccine development, PrEP has proven highly effective in lowering transmission rates among high-risk groups. Comorbidity S...

 As we approach the 2024 National Candlelight Memorial on 9th June and World AIDS Day on 1st December, both taking place in Tlokweng, I find myself reflecting on my own journey with HIV—a diagnosis I received over 28 years ago. I've lived through the pre-treatment era and the AZT era, to the present day, where novel therapies like the Long-Acting Injectable regimen of Cabotegravir (CAB) and Rilpivirine are beginning to be rolled out. Having witnessed firsthand the evolution of HIV care—from an era where treatment was only initiated once CD4 counts fell below 350 cells/mm³—I am astounded by the leaps in medical research and treatment accessibility. Today, people living with HIV (PLHIV) can lead long, healthy lives, a testament to the remarkable progress made. However, as we celebrate these advancements, we must also address the emerging challenges faced by our community, particularly the ageing population of PLHIV. Initially, when treatment rollouts began, they targeted a younger de...

Dear Friends and Champions, On 5 June, we will observe a day dedicated to honouring and recognising the resilience of individuals like us, who have lived with HIV for many years. It’s a day to reflect on our journey, celebrate our strength, and remember those we’ve lost along the way. As we commemorate this day here in Botswana, I want to address two crucial issues that impact all of us as long-term survivors. Firstly, we have observed a trend where the voices of PLHIV activists have become increasingly passive. It's time for us to change this narrative. We must mobilise ourselves to pressure for comprehensive policies that not only recognise us but also address the specific needs arising from long-term treatment and the emerging burden of NCDs. Secondly, over 50% of PLHIV in care in Botswana are over the age of 40, highlighting the growing need for services that cater specifically to the challenges faced by ageing PLHIV. This statistic underscores the importance of our advoc...