Tebelopele Centres Shut Down as US Aid Suspension Hits Botswana’s Health Sector. The sudden suspension of US government aid in Botswana’s health sector has led to the closure of key healthcare organizations, including Tebelopele Voluntary Testing and Counselling Centres. These closures have disrupted vital HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment services, leaving many individuals without access to critical healthcare.
Tebelopele, a well-established network of voluntary testing and counselling centres, has been a cornerstone in Botswana’s fight against HIV/AIDS. The aid suspension has forced its shutdown, alongside other Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) that relied on US funding. The Ministry of Health has not indicated how long these closures will last, raising concerns about service continuity for those dependent on Tebelopele’s support.
In response to the closures, the Ministry of Health has advised former Tebelopele clients and others affected to seek services at public health facilities. Efforts are underway to ensure that key preventive supplies, such as lubricants and condoms, remain available in both public and private healthcare centres. However, ARV distribution at post offices has been temporarily halted, adding another layer of uncertainty for those in need of treatment.
The aid suspension has also affected organizations offering support to victims of Gender-Based Violence (GBV). The Ministry is currently exploring alternative ways to continue these services.
While the Ministry is working to mitigate the impact, the full extent of the disruption remains unclear. Authorities have promised further updates as they navigate solutions to sustain essential healthcare services in Botswana.
