24/06/2026
Launch of HIV Self-Screening Scale-Up and Presentation of Test Kits
Good morning, everyone.
Secretary for Health, colleagues from the National Department of Health, UN colleagues, development partners, community representatives, members of the media, ladies and gentlemen.
It is a privilege to be with you today. I will speak from the heart.
In recent days, I have had the opportunity to be briefed by UNAIDS and community partners to better understand the HIV situation and the broader health system landscape in Papua New Guinea. One figure that struck me deeply is that only around 60 percent of people living with HIV know their status. That immediately raises the question: what happens to the remaining 40 percent?
Many people do not know their status because they do not have easy access to testing. Many tests are still available mainly through health facilities. Others do not come forward because of fear of stigma, fear of discrimination, lack of privacy, or lack of information.
That is why today’s launch matters.
The HIV self-screening kits being presented today may appear to be a small number when compared with the scale of need, but they represent an important beginning. They have been tried, piloted and shown to work. With this first batch, and the full consignment of 52,000 kits, Papua New Guinea is starting a new, innovative, safe, private and confidential way for people to test themselves with dignity, including in the privacy of their own homes.
This launch says that the Government of Papua New Guinea is making HIV testing a priority. More importantly, it shows that testing is being expanded with equity, with dignity, and with respect for human rights.
I want to thank three important groups.
First, I thank the Government of Papua New Guinea. You have recognized the urgency of the HIV situation, including the reality of new infections each day and the serious impact on women, children and communities. Under national leadership, the HIV crisis was declared, and today’s action shows a commitment to doing things differently, steadily and at scale. We have to bend the curve. This is not optional. It is necessary for the future Papua New Guinea wants as it enters its next 50 years.
Second, I thank the partners supporting this response, including DFAT, the Global Fund, the United States Government and the United Nations family. The UN remains committed to standing behind the Government of Papua New Guinea, using our support to strengthen national systems and help expand access to services.
Third, and perhaps most importantly, I thank the communities: peer outreach workers, civil society organizations, faith-based organizations and groups such as KPAC. Without communities, we cannot reach people where they are. Without them, we would not have the results we see today, and with their support, we can reach many more people.
Later today, I will participate in a demonstration of HIV self-screening myself. I am doing this to help normalize HIV testing. Through my own example, I want to show that knowing your status is empowering. It can be done confidentially, and it can save lives.
Let us use this moment to renew our shared commitment: to expand access, reduce stigma, and ensure that every girl, every man and every woman in Papua New Guinea have the opportunity to know their HIV status, access care, and receive the support they deserve.
Thank you.
Ms. Shalini Bahuguna, UN Resident Coordinator in Papua New Guinea
Please contact KPAC Sunset Hub on Whatsapp 7309 6477 or 7924 8900 to assist with HIV/STI testing, counseling and referral.
We are available for your service.
