.. it’s not an end, but new beginning – Dr Okello
– The Director of Health Services in the Ministry of Health, Dr Velephi Okello, noted that achieving the WHO MTCT rate was not an end but a beginning.
MBABANE
MTCT refers to transmission.
Dr Okello, the Director, expressed her remarks on a significant milestone achieved in Eswatini’s battle against HIV/ AIDS and the protection of the health of mothers and children. In a statement that was delivered by the Deputy Director, Dr Bongiwe Malinga, she emphasised the historical nature of this achievement, highlighting the unwavering commitment shown by the government, healthcare workers, communities and partners involved in this cause.
Okello urged everyone to take a moment to reflect on the remarkable mother-tochild
Dr. Velephi Okello, Health Services.
Director
journey that led to this accomplishment. She noted that just over two decades ago, Eswatini faced a daunting challenge with an MTCT rate exceeding 25 per cent. She stated that through strategic interventions, a multi-pronged approach, and unwavering dedication, a remarkable transformation took place. The director added that the country prioritised access to anti-retroviral therapy (ART) for pregnant women living with HIV, implemented Option B+, and bolstered counselling and testing services. Further, she said communities were also actively engaged to raise awareness and address stigma and discrimination.
Declining
She said the collective efforts yielded positive results, with the MTCT rate declining significantly. This, she said, led to Eswatini now celebrating a final MTCT rate of 1.3 per cent, surpassing the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) target of five per cent. She said this