DEAD BARE SEX

Despite years of awareness campaigns and free condom distribution, condom use remains low in Botswana, keeping HIV infection rates high, especially in Mahalapye.This raises serious concerns about the country’s prevention efforts. A recent update presented at the Candlelight Memorial in Kanye highlighted ongoing HIV/AIDS challenges. Speaking on behalf of the Kanye District Council, Deputy Council Secretary for Primary Health Care, Conrad Ntsuape, voiced concern about new infections among young people.While overall HIV rates have declined, youth remain vulnerable due to drug abuse, gender-based violence, and limited access to sexual and reproductive health education.To address rising teenage pregnancies and HIV risk, the Primary Health Care Unit in Kanye launched the Mokgosi School Health Campaign Tour in 2024.It educates adolescents, girls, and young women on personal development, reproductive health, drug awareness, and safe sex practices. Ntsuape reported noticeable improvements, including reduced teenage pregnancies and increased youth engagement.Despite these efforts, condom use remains low, weakening HIV prevention strategies. To combat this, the district introduced the Safe Sex Ke Yone Initiative, expanding condom access through unconventional outlets like street vendors, bars, and tuckshops in low-income areas, making them more visible and accessible. Ntsuape emphasised that local involvement is crucial for lasting change.At the same event, Robert Selato of NAHPA provided a broader perspective, reminding attendees that Botswana ranks fourth globally in HIV prevalence. Though national infections have declined, the virus continues to claim lives and disrupt families.In 2023, South Africa recorded 150,000 new HIV cases, while Botswana’s national prevalence remained at 20.8 percent, affecting an estimated 360,000 adults aged 15 to 64.Women bear the greatest burden, making up nearly 67 percent of those affected, with the highest rates among 35- to 44-year-olds.Regional disparities in infection rates are alarming. While Gaborone reports a relatively lower prevalence at 11.2 percent, Central Mahalapye's rate has surged to 33.7 percent, underscoring the need for targeted interventions in high-burden districts.Selato also highlighted Africa’s uneven access to HIV treatment. While Eswatini has achieved a 95 percent treatment rate, countries like the Congo lag far behind at just 31 percent.Botswana is performing better but it must continue expanding access to antiretroviral therapy for those in need.

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