The current policy situation regarding HIV self-testing in STAR project countries is as follows:

Malawi

There is no formal policy on HIV self-testing in the national guidelines on HIV testing services and no HIV self-test kits are licensed and registered for sale or use. However, HIV self-testing is included in the national strategic plan and there are a number of implementation pilots underway.

Zambia

No formal policy on HIV self-testing exists. However, self-testing is arguably not legal as policies state that HIV testing and counselling must be done by health professionals and in certified centres. There are a number of implementation pilots ongoing which will inform the development of guidelines and corresponding regulatory and policy frameworks.

Zimbabwe

HIV self-testing is not included in the national guidelines on HIV testing services. At this time adoption of HIV self-testing policies are being evaluated based on results of pilot programmes.