The Botswana Network of People Living with HIV and AIDS (BONEPWA+) is scheduled to host a National Policy Dialogue Workshop which will take place on 06 October 2010, at Maharaja Restaurant and Conference Centre, starting 0800hrs.
The workshop intends to create a discussion forum where stakeholders from Botswana working in the HIV and AIDS response will dialogue together on Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) related issues.
David Ngele, Executive Director of BONEPWA, explained that the idea was to enable a better understanding of the prospects for sustainability or otherwise of ART in Botswana, as well as the challenges and successes.
“Upon conclusion, the forum will be expected to make recommendations that should have the effect of stimulating some scientific discussions and develop or broaden understanding of policy relevant approaches and analysis from decision and policy makers,” Ngele told The Sunday Standard.
Regarding the target of the workshop, Ngele indicated that it will be an open discussion forum for all stakeholders.
He added that the overall objective of the Policy Dialogue was to contribute to the national debate and efforts on strengthening the bridge between theory and practice in matters relating to the use, uptake of ART and related threats.
The organizers have expressed a desire to have a broad base of stakeholders with journalists attending for more than just coverage to freely benefit from the shared findings of an evaluation made on the ART Programme in Botswana.
The outcome of the one day activity will be eventually conveyed to SAfAids for reference use, and Results of the Policy Dialogue will be shared with all PLWHIV support groups at the BONEPWA+ 4th PLWHIV Week to be held in Palapye from the 24th ÔÇô 31st November 2010.