Ministry of Health Unveils Strategic Plan for Triple Elimination of HIV, Syphilis, and Hepatitis B

The Ministry of Health has officially launched the dissemination of the Strategic Plan for the Triple Elimination of HIV, Syphilis, and Hepatitis B in Maseru. The plan aims to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of these three infections and improve long-term public health outcomes across Lesotho.

The event brought together health professionals, government officials, and development partners to review the strategy and renew their commitment to eradicating preventable diseases that continue to affect mothers and children.

According to Ms Sethole Mangose, Family Planning Manager, the Ministry began implementing the Prevention of Mother-To-Child Transmission (PMTCT) program in 2023. Several districts started testing pregnant women for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B. This initiative has already shown progress. The rate of vertical transmission of HIV dropped from 11.5% in 2020 to 5.1% in 2023.

Despite this improvement, the country remains off track in achieving the World Health Organization (WHO) targets for eliminating HIV transmission. Ms Mangose stated that the Ministry plans to strengthen prevention efforts and scale up testing and treatment services in all districts.

The Strategic Plan focuses on three key objectives, as outlined by Dr. Sekhobe:

• Strengthen and integrate services for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B within maternal and child health programs.
• Improve the use of routine health data to inform decision-making.
• Initiate planning and action at the district level to ensure effective implementation.

Dr. Llang Maama, speaking on behalf of the Director General of Health, emphasized that PMTCT is central to eliminating these diseases. She highlighted the importance of ensuring that all children are born healthy and free of preventable infections. She added that collaboration within the health system is essential to achieving these goals and shaping a healthier future.

Mr. Sebeo, also from the Ministry of Health, noted that the PMTCT program has helped reduce infection rates, further validating the importance of sustained intervention and community engagement.

The Ministry’s vision is clear: to build a Lesotho where no child is born with HIV, syphilis, or hepatitis B. A country where mothers and children survive, thrive, and reach their full potential.

The launch of this strategic plan marks a critical step forward in that vision.