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BOTSWANA: Tribal leaders tackle AIDS stigma

[This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations]

JOHANNESBURG, 1 June (PLUSNEWS) - Botswana Paramount Chief Kgosi Kgari Sechele III and 30 of his tribal leaders have voluntarily tested for HIV to help lessen AIDS-related stigma.

Research shows that an estimated 38 percent of the country's adults aged between 15 and 49 are living with HIV/AIDS - one of the world's highest infection rates.

The decision to be publicly tested was made in response to a request by Peace Corps volunteers, who said it would set an example for other people to follow.

Sechele was quoted by the Associated Press as saying: "It was not necessary for me to think deeply about the decision to test for HIV, because it will encourage others to know their status."

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