Africa-Press – Mauritius. In the context of the commemoration of World AIDS Day 2025, the Minister of Health and Wellness, Mr Anil Kumar Bachoo, launched this morning at the Hennessy Park Hotel in Ebene a Booklet on ‘Frequently Asked Questions on the HIV Self-Test’. The World Health Organization’s (WHO) theme for this year is Overcoming Disruption, transforming the AIDS response.
In addition to providing clear and accurate guidance for HIV self-testing, the booklet also addresses common concerns and helps to prevent misinformation. The Junior Minister, Mrs Anishta Babooram, as well as other eminent personalities were present on that occasion.
In his address Minister Bachoo highlighted that Mauritius has seen a rise in new HIV infections in recent years, with young adults aged 25 to 44 years old being the most affected. Protecting their health equates to protecting the socio-economic progress of the country as they are the backbone of the economy, he said.
Mr Bachoo pointed out that HIV prevention programmes are being disrupted due to funding cuts and that vital community-led services to the most vulnerable affected population are losing required support. The Ministry is committed to adopting innovative approaches geared towards ending stigma and discrimination, and protecting the rights of the most vulnerable.
Moreover, he recalled, the parent Ministry is laying emphasis on strengthening the National HIV Response through strategic and people-centred initiatives. As such, the launching of this booklet aims at providing better support to individuals who choose to test themselves in a private and confidential setting, said the Minister.
Mr Bachoo also announced that the National Daycare Centre for Immuno-Suppressed will be relocated to a more appropriate modern place within the A.G. Jeetoo Hospital in Port Louis. This demonstrates Government’s commitment to ensuring that people living with HIV receive appropriate care in a safe and supportive environment.
Through the commemoration of World AIDS Day this year, the WHO calls for sustained political leadership, international cooperation, and human-rights-centred approaches to end AIDS by 2030. After decades of progress, the HIV response stands at a crossroads. Life-saving services are being disrupted, and many communities face heightened risks and vulnerabilities. Yet amid these challenges, hope endures in the determination, resilience, and innovation of communities who strive to end AIDS.
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