BOTSWANA: US cash boost for AIDS battle

The US has announced plans to commit almost $30 million to Botswana's battle against HIV and AIDS as part of the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).

Some $11 million each will go to prevention and care, while another $6.4 million will be used to boost antiretroviral (ARV) treatment programmes.

"In addition to continuing support for key governmental programmes, such as the national Prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) and ARV programmes, funds will strengthen the capacity of community-based organisations, including faith-based groups," said the US ambassador to Botswana, Joseph Huggins, in the capital, Gaborone.

Botswana has already received $18 million from PEPFAR for 2004 and is expected to receive another $35 million in 2005.

Theme (s): Care/Treatment - PlusNews,

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