09/12/2025
On 4 December 2025, AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Lesotho hosted a vibrant World AIDS Day (WAD) commemoration in Mafeteng. The event brought together government leaders, development partners, civil society, and community members to reflect on progress, challenges, and collective commitments in the fight against HIV.
The commemoration began with a powerful march led by the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, the AHF Country Program Manager, the District Health Management Team, and the Commissioner of Police, symbolizing unity and determination in strengthening the national HIV response.
Dignitaries in attendance included the District Medical Officer, the District Administrator, the Minister of Home Affairs, the Commissioner of Police, the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, representatives from the National AIDS Commission (NAC), and several AHF partners. Their presence underscored the importance of a united, multisectoral approach to addressing HIV/AIDS in Lesotho.
In her keynote remarks, the Deputy Speaker of Parliament applauded AHF Lesotho for its ongoing efforts to improve health outcomes and strengthen social protection for vulnerable groups. She highlighted the government’s milestone achievement—the tax-free sanitary pads legislation introduced a year ago—describing it as a transformative step toward promoting menstrual equity and supporting adolescent girls’ health and dignity.
The AHF Country Program Manager spoke passionately about the urgent need for domestic health resource mobilization, noting that sustainable HIV programming relies on strong national investment and leadership. She emphasized the critical role of communities, stressing that they must remain at the center of the response to ensure resilience and continuity of services despite economic or social disruptions.
In a heartwarming gesture of solidarity, Lesotho Women in Dialogue, a partner and friend of AHF, supported the commemoration by donating gifts—including sheets, towels, and blankets—to AHF-supported sites in the district. Their contribution reinforced the spirit of community partnership and care.
Officials from the Ministry of Health (MOH) and other stakeholders expressed deep appreciation to AHF for hosting an impactful and well-organized World AIDS Day event. They commended AHF’s strong partnership and consistent contributions to HIV testing, treatment, prevention, advocacy, and community empowerment across the country.
The commemorative event concluded with a renewed commitment to accelerate efforts, strengthen partnerships, and transform the AIDS response in alignment with the 2025 theme. AHF Lesotho reaffirmed its dedication to supporting national goals and working alongside communities and government to achieve an AIDS-free generation.
