Dr Daniel Magesa, Chief of the Clinical Services Branch at the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), has emphasized HIV self-testing and Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) as new interventions that can help decrease the rate of new HIV infections among young people.

He disclosed this information over the weekend during the handover ceremony of a refurbished 'Bulungwa Health HIV Care and Treatment Clinic,' along with medical equipment valued at 768m/-. These items were handed over to the Ushetu District Council in Shinyanga region. 

These initiatives were all spearheaded by the Tanzania Health Promotion Support (THPS) as part of its efforts to improve the quality of healthcare in the country.

Indeed, these donations form a component of a five-year project named 'Afya Hatua,' funded by the US President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) through the CDC.

According to the CDC chief, the 2022-2023 Tanzania HIV Impact Survey revealed that young people are at the forefront of new infections. Therefore, interventions such as HIV self-testing and PrEP can play a crucial role in reaching this demographic and reducing the rate of new infections among them.

He further stated, "CDC aids the Regional Health Management team in implementing comprehensive HIV and tuberculosis prevention, care, and treatment, as well as screening for cervical cancer. Additionally, we have initiated support for integrating hypertension management into HIV care and treatment services."

Magesa also emphasized the need for heightened collaboration and partnerships in HIV and AIDS prevention, care, and treatment, aiming to bolster the delivery of high-quality HIV health services. The U.S. government acknowledges and backs this dedication.

George Anatory, acting THPS executive director, emphasized that in addition to donations, his organization remains steadfast in supporting the government's endeavors to enhance the environment for HIV care and treatment services, aiming to augment the number of individuals receiving services at the centre.