Lesotho Reaffirms Commitment to Ending AIDS by 2030 at African Union Extraordinary Summit

The Kingdom of Lesotho reaffirmed its commitment to improving public health across Africa during the 20th Extraordinary Summit of the African Union, which was held in Accra, Ghana, from 21 to 22 July 2026. The country’s delegation was led by the Honourable Minister of Health, ’Mamokete Ntšekhe, who represented Lesotho in high level discussions focused on strengthening Africa’s health systems and accelerating progress toward ending AIDS. The summit brought together leaders, ministers and policymakers from across the continent to discuss collective strategies for improving health outcomes and building resilient healthcare systems. Lesotho’s participation demonstrated its continued dedication to regional cooperation and its determination to contribute to Africa’s long term health security. The Kingdom also used the platform to share its achievements and encourage stronger collaboration among African nations in addressing current and future health challenges.

During her address to fellow African leaders and delegates, Minister Ntšekhe reaffirmed Lesotho’s unwavering commitment to ending AIDS by 2030 while strengthening resilient health systems and advancing Universal Health Coverage. She emphasized that improving healthcare access remains a national priority and that Lesotho is committed to ensuring quality healthcare services reach every citizen. The Minister noted that sustainable progress requires strong political leadership, strategic planning and continuous investment in healthcare infrastructure and services. She also highlighted the importance of partnerships between governments, communities and international organizations in achieving lasting health improvements. Her remarks reflected Lesotho’s belief that collaboration is essential for building healthier societies across the continent.

One of the strongest messages delivered by the Minister centered on Lesotho’s remarkable achievements in the fight against HIV and AIDS. She announced that the Kingdom has successfully surpassed the ambitious UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets, making it one of Africa’s leading examples in HIV response. According to the latest figures, 97 percent of people living with HIV in Lesotho know their status, 97 percent of those diagnosed are receiving life saving treatment and 99 percent have achieved viral suppression. These impressive outcomes represent years of sustained effort by healthcare professionals, government institutions, community organizations and development partners. The achievements also demonstrate that ambitious public health goals can be reached through evidence based policies, strong leadership and consistent investment in healthcare services.

The Minister explained that Lesotho’s progress did not happen overnight but resulted from comprehensive national strategies designed to improve HIV prevention, testing, treatment and patient support. Community based healthcare services have played an important role in reaching vulnerable populations and ensuring that people remain connected to treatment programs. Public awareness campaigns have also helped reduce stigma while encouraging more people to access HIV testing and treatment services. Continued investment in healthcare workers and improved access to medicines have strengthened the country’s ability to deliver effective care. These combined efforts have positioned Lesotho as a regional example of what can be achieved through coordinated and sustained public health interventions.

Despite celebrating these accomplishments, Minister Ntšekhe cautioned that success should never lead to complacency. She warned that declining external financing for health programs presents a significant challenge for many African countries, including those that have made considerable progress. As international funding decreases, governments will need to increase domestic investment to protect the gains already achieved while expanding healthcare services to meet future needs. Building self reliant health systems has therefore become an urgent priority across the continent. The Minister stressed that African countries must prepare for both existing diseases and emerging health threats by strengthening their national healthcare capacities.

Lesotho also called for greater investment in regional manufacturing of medicines, vaccines, diagnostics and other essential medical technologies. Expanding pharmaceutical production within Africa would reduce dependence on imported medical supplies while improving the continent’s ability to respond quickly during health emergencies. The Minister highlighted the importance of strengthening scientific research, promoting technology transfer and developing Africa’s skilled healthcare and scientific workforce. Investing in innovation and local manufacturing would not only improve health security but also contribute to economic development and job creation. These measures are increasingly viewed as critical steps toward achieving greater independence in healthcare across Africa.

Another important priority raised by Lesotho was the need for stronger continental solidarity in health financing and procurement. Minister Ntšekhe encouraged African countries to work together through pooled financing mechanisms, coordinated procurement systems and strategic reserves of essential medical commodities. Such cooperation can improve affordability, increase efficiency and ensure that countries have access to vital medical supplies during emergencies. Shared approaches also strengthen bargaining power when purchasing medicines and healthcare equipment. Lesotho believes that deeper regional cooperation will help create stronger and more resilient healthcare systems that benefit all African citizens.

Drawing inspiration from the unity displayed during negotiations on the World Health Organization Pandemic Agreement, the Minister urged African nations to continue speaking with one voice on global health issues. She noted that a united Africa is better positioned to influence international health policy while advancing solutions that address the continent’s unique challenges. Cooperation among member states strengthens Africa’s ability to respond effectively to pandemics, disease outbreaks and other public health emergencies. The Minister emphasized that maintaining solidarity will be essential as the continent continues implementing long term health reforms. Working together allows African countries to share expertise, resources and successful strategies that improve health outcomes across the region.

During the summit, Lesotho reaffirmed its support for the adoption of the African Union High Level Declaration and pledged its commitment to implementing the AU Roadmap to 2030 and Beyond. The roadmap provides a shared framework for improving healthcare systems, promoting disease prevention and ensuring equitable access to quality health services throughout Africa. Lesotho’s endorsement reflects its determination to work alongside fellow member states in delivering meaningful progress toward these continental objectives. The Kingdom recognizes that achieving these goals will require sustained political commitment, adequate financing and strong partnerships at both national and regional levels. Continued collaboration will be essential for translating policy commitments into tangible improvements for African communities.

Lesotho’s participation in the 20th Extraordinary Summit of the African Union highlighted the country’s growing leadership in public health and its determination to help shape Africa’s healthcare future. By sharing its success in surpassing the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets while advocating for stronger domestic investment, regional manufacturing and continental cooperation, the Kingdom demonstrated a balanced approach to both celebrating progress and addressing future challenges. Its commitment to ending AIDS by 2030 and strengthening resilient health systems reflects a broader vision of a healthier and more self reliant Africa. As member states continue working toward the AU Roadmap to 2030 and Beyond, Lesotho has positioned itself as an active partner committed to ensuring that no one is left behind. Through sustained leadership, collaboration and investment, the Kingdom aims to contribute to a future where every African has access to quality healthcare and improved opportunities for a healthy life.