NEW HIV ORAL SELF TEST KITS ROLLED OUT

CAPTION: Department of Health STI/HIV Program Manager Dr Gideon Nano

MARTINA TAKANENG

A new HIV oral self-testing kit is being rolled out to communities, giving people at risk the chance to check their status privately and at their own pace.

Department of Health STI/HIV Program Manager Dr Gideon Nano told FM100’s Talk Back Show the program began in the National Capital District last year with positive results and is now expanding to four provinces.

He said in 2025, around 430,000 people came forward for blood-based HIV tests, showing strong demand.

“There is still good indication that people are willing and want to be tested. There has been an increase in the number of people willingly coming out to be tested. In 2023 around 178, 000 people were tested. 282, 000 people in 2024 and 430, 000 in 2025,” Dr Nano stated.

He said, HIV testing from blood samples is not enough, however with the kits, their target for this year is to reach 1 million patients tested.

The roll out of self-test kits is aimed at reaching those who have never been tested before, with support from the National AIDS Council through awareness campaigns that have boosted public willingness.

With support from UNFPA, out of the 52,000 kits, 26,000 were handed over to the health Secretary 2 weeks ago.

Dr Nano explained the kit uses an oral swab, with results ready in 20 minutes, similar to malaria or pregnancy tests.

He encouraged everyone to know their status, saying early detection can save lives and prevent further spread.