President Jacob Zuma said on Tuesday that he will receive an HIV test, adding that he has been tested before and urging the public to find out if they have the disease.

"The HIV tests are voluntary and they are confidential. We know that it is not easy. It is a difficult decision to take," he said in a nationally televised speech to mark World Aids Day.

"I know my status"

"I am making arrangements for my own test. I have taken HIV tests before, and I know my status. I will do another test soon," he said. "I urge you to start planning for your own tests."

Zuma made the announcement as he unveiled a expansion in South Africa's Aids treatment scheme for infants and pregnant women.

His frank speech marked a sharp break from the denialist policies of former president Thabo Mbeki, who defied scientific evidence to question the link between HIV and Aids, delaying the provision of treatment to millions of people.