The national response to HIV is guided by national policy and strategic plans. The HIV policy and strategic plans have evolved over the last two decades from the health sector leading to a multi-sectoral response, that is evidence-based and results-oriented. The first plan developed in 1987 was health-focused and gave the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare the overall responsibility to provide HIV services. This was followed by the first multi-sectoral strategic framework (2003-2008), the second framework for 2009-2014 and the current plan for 2015-2019. At the same time, the Government developed the first HIV policy and guidelines in 1995 to provide a policy framework for the national response. This policy was reviewed and updated in 2007 and 2013, 2014 to 2018, and 2019 to 2023 to address emerging issues and integrate new technologies in the provision of HIV services. It is worth mentioning that the HIV and AIDS policy and strategic plans have always been aligned with the broader Health Sector plans and other national and international development blueprints.
