Cape Town Samp Army, Zim Afro T10 players and officials
BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA
The inclusion of six Zimbabwean cricket players in the Cape Town Samp Army, Zim Afro T10 squad, is evident of the great experience the players have and the amount of support they command from local fans, owner of the team, Ritesh Patel has said.
Patel revealed this in Harare today during a press conference ahead of the second season of the shortest cricket format which also begins today.
“The tournament is being held in Zimbabwe and I think it’s important to have Zimbabwean players in the team because we will have all the support and also they have been playing here for long so that is the biggest support to the whole entire franchise so that is the reason why we have great international experienced guys with the Zimbabwean guys, so it’s great combination.
“We are here to entertain Zimbabwean fans, and that’s why there are six Zimbabwean players in my team. I hope to get the support of local fans, and I invite everyone to come large numbers and cheer for Cape Town Samp Army and enjoy our matches. We are also thankful to our title sponsor, Dafabet, for trusting our brand.”
And to add the icing on the cake, another Zimbabwean, Stuart Matsikenyeri is the coach of the team.
Patel said they were excited to aannounce their participation in the second season of the Zim Afro T10 hosted and organized by Zimbabwe Cricket.
He added: “The name SAMP stands for unity, and the team lives up to this spirit, as it is composed of players from England, Afghanistan, West Indies, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, UAE and Zimbabwe.”
Rohan Mustafa, the Captain of Cape Town Samp Army, expressed his joy saying, “I’m delighted and excited to have world-class players from all over the world.
“The format demands quick but composed action on the field and I am sure this team has the right temperament to succeed.”
David Willey, the team’s Vice Captain weighed in saying, “we don’t have big names, but we have the right combination give us an edge over others.”
Representing Zimbabwe, Benjamin Curran, spoke of his thoughts on playing with International players.
“It will be a great experience playing with and against world class cricketers, and I’m proud to add local Zimbabwean power to the team.”
Samp Army has previously participated in various T10 tournaments with renowned international players like Moeen Ali, Faf du Plessis, Jason Holder, David Miller, Shimron, Hetmyer, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and Mahesh Theekshana.
During the press conference which also coincided with a special event where the team’s jerseys were officially handed over to players, many (players) echoed similar sentiments about the team’s culture, stating: “the owner and management of Samp Army treat us like family.
“Playing as a team and maintaining a strong team culture is their top priority.”
And the players were visibly excited and happy as they received their jerseys, reflecting a positive team spirit.
Cape Town Samp Army’s first match is scheduled for today at 5 PM.
And for this season of Zim Afro T10, Cape Town Samp Army will feature the following players:
SASA; a programme designed by a Ugandan-based non-governmental organisation, Raising Voices, has proved its worth in Zimbabwe, as it had helped to reduce violence against women and HIV infections.
And to add it onto its benefit, the SASA (Start, Awareness, Support and Action) programme has also managed to change some people who revealed they used to be perpetrators of violence against their fellow community members.
These people revealed their appreciation of the SASA programme during a National AIDS Council Media Tour of Mashonaland Central.
According to The HIV/AIDS Network; SASA is a methodology and approach designed by the Uganda-based Raising Voices, which works with women and children to explore the gender aspects of power and to address the link between violence against women (VAW) and HIV/AIDS.
“SASA is a Kiswahili word for “now” and also serves as an acronym for the key components of the programme: Start, Awareness, Support and Action.
“The programme seeks to prevent VAW and HIV by changing the attitudes and behaviours that perpetuate power imbalances in relationships between men and women.”
Gladness Mwale, aged 23, from Mbire District in Ward 3 was full of praises for the SASA programme, as she was honest enough to reveal that she used to be violent.
“Ini SASA yakatondibatsira nekuti ndaitombovawo munhu wacho aitokonzeresa mhirizhonga.
“Ndaiva munhu wekuti ndaiti ndikanzwa zvataurwa nezvangu ndainobvunza, asi pakubvunza ndipo paikonzereseka dzimwe nyaya dzaizonetsa. (SASA programme helped me personally because I used to be violent. Whenever I got angry, I would engage in violence but it took me to be trained that I saw that what I was doing was wrong.)
Mwale revealed that when she was introduced to the SASA programme she didn’t understand it before she got hooked, in a good way.
“As a member of this programme, we were taught that before you expect to change other people, you have to change first.
“So I’m happy I did that, I did self-introspection and knew what I had to change about my behaviour.
“We were taught about things to do with gender based violence and all its key drivers. So we started going to villages and spreading this word on SASA.
“I started in 2019 and this year in December I will be completing this programme. We go into villages teaching people so that they know all that is to know about GBV. Many people did not even know what SASA was all about, but it all changed and many people got to know about SASA and it impacted them positively.
“Many also got to be serious about getting tested for HIV and also to book pregnancies early and it also helped in many other aspects of maternal health,” said Mwale.
She added: “cases of GBV have lessened because SASA speaks against such issues, it really helped us. We also got to engage in many other income generating projects, this really helped us a lot.
“SASA also helped us especially as young women because we got to learn about many projects because we used to have issues with financial management.
“Before SASA, we really used to have issues in our marriages, like our husbands would just use all the money on things which they wanted not considering the family but we have been empowered also such that we now have our own income generating projects.
“We have goat projects which has really helped.”
She also revealed that as a result of SASA, women can now stand for their rights, they now understand that they can report either to the police or other women’s organisations.
Cases of young women who used to be abused and the perpetrators getting away with such crimes have also lessened said Mwale.
Holiday Banda
Holiday Banda, a 37-year-old man who is also helping to spread the SASA ‘gospel’ said the programme had also helped him in his marriage because they used to have numerous misunderstandings with his wife, but that had since changed.
Banda said at first he didn’t understand what this programme was all about till they were trained.
“There are groups and in each group there are 25 people and in a month we meet three times, first month we discuss about GBV.
“Then second month we discuss about power dynamics in the house, then lastly we talk about HIV and AIDS,” said Banda.
Chipo Jongoro, Katswe Sistahood Field Officer
Chipo Jongoro, Katswe Sistahood Field Officer, revealed that the programme had four phases and along with NAC, they are implementing it in Mbire District five Wards 2, 3, 4, 11 and 12.
“In Ward 2 and 3, it is in the Action Phase, which is the last phase of the project where we are looking to say when the project is done, what shall happen, who will remain to see that the project continues.
“So we are working with several government departments, like Ministry of Youth, Ministry of Women Affairs, Ministry of Health and we are also working with traditional leaders, church leaders and youths and women who have influence in the community so that when the project they will continue to talk about GBV and HIV issues.
“Our main aim as SASA is we are looking at women and young women who are facing abuse, linking them to get health services or getting help when they want to get report issues,” said Jongoro.
Edgar Muzulu, Provincial Manager for NAC in Mashonaland Central
Edgar Muzulu, Provincial Manager for NAC in Mashonaland Central, said GBV was one of our key drivers of HIV so they were making use of the SASA approach, which is a model meant to bring about transformation in terms of how people relate, how people view their own norms and values.
“So it is transformative in nature in terms of how people look at what is valuable and in terms of traditional practices.
“You will find out that traditionally in a setting like Shamva, there was actually valuing those traditions like chiramu, kugara nhaka and so forth, which were some of the causes how HIV spreads.
“So you will find that because of the education, it actually focuses on traditional leaders, influential leaders, religious leaders and the approach seeks to make people introspect and relook at how they are living and see which are the practices which are wrong, which are in the negative, which need to be addressed,” said Muzulu.
He added that with the SASA model, people are equipped with skills of trying to raise awareness amongst themselves and they are also given skills of how to respond, how to encourage each other to avoid such practices.
Muzulu further added that they had noticed some positive outcomes as a result of the SASA model which is currently being employed in Shamva, in Bindura District under the Global Fund and in Mbire District under a Social Contracting Arrangement.
And during the week long NAC Media Tour, journalists managed to see and hear how SASA had changed lives, testament that this Uganda borrowed initiative, can also work well in Zimbabwe.
Edgar Muzulu, Provincial Manager for NAC in Mashonaland Central
BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA in Mazowe
The Combination Prevention Approach being employed by the National AIDS Council (NAC) and other partners, has gone a long way in terms of reducing new HIV infections in Mashonaland Central Province.
The Province has a total burden of 111 000 people living with HIV, which translates to a 10,35 percent HIV prevalence and is currently on number five nationally.
It was also revealed that new infections used to be very high, but they have since reduced thanks to the Combination Prevention Approach.
According to the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), UNAIDS defines combination HIV prevention as rights-, evidence-, and community-based programs that promote a combination of biomedical, behavioural, and structural interventions designed to meet the HIV prevention needs of specific people and communities.
Speaking during a NAC media tour, Edgar Muzulu, Provincial Manager for NAC in Mashonaland Central said the province has eight districts, namely Mazowe, Bindura, Shamva, Mount Darwin, Rushinga, Muzarabani, Guruve and Mbire, where various responses to key drivers of HIV are being carried out.
Some of the key drivers in the province include gender based violence, traditional and religious practices, people with low risk perceptions about themselves and multi concurrent partnerships where there is low condom use.
“In response to these key drivers as a province; we have come up with interventions that are primarily preventative in nature, because our focus is more on prevention so we make use of what we call the Combination Prevention Approach.
“This is a cocktail of interventions or strategies that include Elimination of Mother to Child Transmission.
“Mother to child transmission is one of the major ways that transmission is taking place in our province because most women when they are pregnant, they miss out on getting on ART (anti-retroviral treatment) or in terms of taking the medication that prevents their unborn babies not to get infected.
“Then another intervention that we have when it comes to preventing these problems is the HIV Testing and Counselling Services; that is the entry point of everyone.
“Then we also have Behaviour Change Communication so that people are aware of risks and what ways they can use in terms of reducing risks in terms of new infections,” said Muzulu.
He added that another Combination Prevention Approach is the condom, which is a way of preventing new infections, a way of preventing of unwanted pregnancies and prevention of STIs.
“STIs are one of the major avenues through which people get HIV because if a person gets STIs, they have some wounds which become openings and become easier highways for HIV.
“Then as we do this Combination Prevention Approach; we make use of what we call models, these are community based interventions that are driven by what we call the peer led approach.
“Within each community, they identify each problem and come up with a model suitable to address those problems.
“For example we have gender based violence as one of our key drivers so you see that we make use of what we call the SASA (Start, Awareness, Support and Action) approach which is a model meant to bring about transformation in terms of how people relate, how people view their own norms and values.
“So it is transformative in nature in terms of how people look at what is valuable and in terms of traditional practices.
“You will find out that traditionally in a setting like Shamva, there was actually valuing those traditions like chiramu, kugara nhaka and so forth, which were some of the causes how HIV spreads.
“So you will find that because of the education, it actually focuses on traditional leaders, influential leaders, religious leaders and the approach seeks to make people introspect and relook at how they are living and see which are the practices which are wrong, which are in the negative, which need to be addressed,” said Muzulu.
He added that with the SASA model, people are equipped with skills of trying to raise awareness amongst themselves and they are also given skills of how to respond, how to encourage each other to avoid such practices.
Muzulu further added that they had noticed some positive outcomes as result of the SASA model which is currently being employed in Shamva, in Bindura District under the Global Fund and in Mbire District under a Social Contracting Arrangement.
He also revealed that the Sista-2-Sista Model which is being implemented in Rushinga District under the Global Fund Grant and also from domestic resources, focuses on the adolescent girls and young women, mostly the 15 to 24 year olds.
“With the objective of equipping these young girls with skills of determination, with skills of resilience, skills of financial management, skills of knowing how to manage their own reproductive sexual health.
“In terms of other skills which will prevent them from getting pregnancies early in their lives and prolong getting married and empower them in terms of their livelihoods.
“So it’s a total package that empowers the young girls so that they are able to live and be able to avoid risk behaviours that can lead to them being infected.
“Then the DREAMS (Determined, Resilient, Empowered AIDS-free) Model, we learnt it from our partners, Zimbabwe Health Interventions (ZHI).
“This model also focuses on adolescent girls and young women to inculcate those virtues of determination, resilience, giving the girl child that confidence, so that they are able to realise their dreams. Determined, Resilient, Empowered, AIDS-free, mentored and safe girls.
“If they are mentored, if they are safe, if they are determined, if they are resilient, then they will realise their dreams.”
Muzulu further revealed that for all the models or strategies, they focus on people centeredness, which is why it is community rooted.
He also revealed that train selected volunteers who are known by their own peers so that they are given the skills and once they are given the skills through a trainer of trainers, they then come back to their communities and drive programmes.
Every year a cohort is recruited and they go through trainings from January to December and once they graduate they go back into the communities, while NAC then make follow ups to see if they are using the skills they would have acquired.
Some of the skills that we give them are economic generation programmes, which they are taught to be self-reliant, some do soap making, basket making, while some form groups and lend money to each other.
The Male Engagement is also another strategy whereby boys are engaged at an early stage so as to inculcate a sense of responsibility and a sense of working hard and sense of caring for others and a sense of not being reckless.
Asked why they carry out different interventions in different districts, Muzulu said: “the epidemic is not homogenous, what drives the epidemic in Mazowe is not what drives the epidemic in Muzarabani, so we do what we call problem identification together with stakeholders.
“And we do what we call ranking of problems and we do what we call prioritization. So when you come to Mazowe when they rank their problems, they can tell you that no, we want to focus on adolescents because this is our big problem.
“If you go to Mbire, they can tell you that focus on men because they are causing GBV (Gender Based Violence). So those are the issues now, so the epidemic is dynamic, it differs from one area to another accordingly.”
Edward Kallon, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator
BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA
Effective preparation for droughts is critical to combat effects of such occurrences, as Zimbabwe along with other countries face recurrent climate shocks.
The El Nino induced drought has seen Zimbabwe’s cereal production been cut by 77 percent, leaving about 60 percent of the country’s population food insecure.
This was revealed by Edward Kallon, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, at the 2024 Zimbabwe Economic Development Conference which is being held in Victoria Falls.
The conference is running under the theme, “Building Resilience and Driving Economic Transformation under Climate Change.”
Kallon said there were a lot of things which could be done so as to reduce the effects of drought which is threatening many livelihoods.
“The key takeaway from the anticipatory action is that effective preparation requires the establishment of early warning systems, the maintenance of strategic food reserves, and the implementation of crop insurance programs.
“By showcasing robust risk management strategies, Zimbabwe can bolster its credibility and attract investment from international financial institutions, especially after recently receiving US$32 million from the Africa Risk Insurance and climate resilience-focused donors.
“Our proactive approach to managing potential disasters is essential as threats approach.
“I would like to commend the Government of Zimbabwe for its timely decision to declare a State of Disaster, as announced by His Excellency the President, followed by a comprehensive national response plan.
“The UN and other partners have been working to support this effort, launching flash appeal amounting US$430 million, which accounts for 30 percent of the national response,” said Kallon.
Kallon also revealed that the conference’s theme is particularly timely as Zimbabwe, the SADC region, and the world face recurrent climatic shocks.
He added that the present El Niño-induced drought, the most severe in 40 years, affecting millions, underscores the urgency of the work that needs to be done.
“Zimbabwe, like many other countries, faces significant challenges due to the impacts of climate change.
“The El Nino phenomenon has had negative implications on economic growth, agricultural yields, food security, energy, water, sanitation and hygiene, health and education sectors.
“The drought cut Zimbabwe’s cereal production by 77 percent, leaving about 60 percent of the country’s population food insecure.”
Kallon also said that to build resilience and drive economic transformation, it requires several things amongst them mobilizing resources for climate resilience.
“To fill the adaptation financing gap, Zimbabwe must strategically leverage both domestic and international resources.
“The national budget should prioritize climate adaptation projects, complemented by seeking support from international institutions such as the Green Climate Fund.
“Furthermore, the private sector can be engaged through incentives and public-private partnerships, fostering investments in renewable energy, climate-smart agriculture, and sustainable infrastructure.
“Green bonds present an innovative avenue to finance climate projects, expanding our financial resource base.
“Ensuring that resources are used effectively and efficiently is critical. This requires a transparent and accountable governance framework. Establishing clear metrics and reporting mechanisms can help monitor the progress of climate resilience programmes.
“Additionally, investing in capacity building for local communities and governmental bodies ensures that stakeholders are knowledgeable about implementing and managing adaptation strategies. Incorporating advanced technology and data analytics can further optimize resource allocation and track project outcomes.
“This requires a whole-government and inter-sectoral collaboration with one entity facilitating.
“To catalyze and improve the coordination and collaboration of resources, Zimbabwe should foster partnerships between government agencies, non-governmental organizations, the private sector, and the international community.
“Establishing a robust national resilience platform led by the Government with support from UN and development partners to climate resilience can help align efforts and avoid duplication of initiatives.
“Given the borderless nature of climate shocks as witnessed by the current El Nino induced drought and the Cyclone Idai and Freddy in recent years, regional collaboration with neighboring countries can also facilitate share knowledge, resources, and strategies, enhancing collective resilience against climate impacts.
“Proactive preparation for El Niño and La Niña events can translate into better access to finance by showcasing Zimbabwe’s commitment to mitigating climate risks. We can draw lessons on our first anticipatory action plan that was led the Department of Civil Protection and supported by the UN and Partners with a total budget of US$28 million of which close to US$10 million was mobilized from the UN Central Emergency Response Fund,” added Kallon.
He also revealed that building resilience and driving economic transformation under climate change requires massive resource, innovation, technology, infrastructure, overhauling, and re-aligning and making community infrastructure and industries climate-proof.
He added that some countries, including Zimbabwe are face significant obstacles like rising debts, escalating climate threats, and financial systems inadequate for fostering their development or prosperity.
Kallon also revealed that there was need for crucial reform of the global financial system which ensures fair opportunities for growth and resilience.
He also shared some perspectives for consideration, which he said are critical for joint advocacy to facilitate resilience building and driving economic transformation under climate change.
“Burdened by debts impeding growth: reforms such as ‘pause clauses’ for natural disasters and comprehensive debt restructuring are essential as the country confronts its worst drought in 40 years.
“This is critical to advance indispensable sectors such as food systems, digital connectivity, health, and clean energy.
“Prioritizing climate finance fosters resilience against ecological disruptions and ensures the socio-economic stability of communities. “This necessitates international cooperation that extends beyond funding, embracing integrated strategies that incorporate technology and innovation.
“The UN Secretary General in his post-covid policy briefs proposed annual SDGs stimulus of US$500 billion, backed by the creation of a Multi-Purpose Trust Fund, aims to mobilize resources crucial for advancing food systems, digital connectivity, health, education, clean energy, climate action, and jobs and social protection—cornerstones of prosperity and equity.
“We have been testing here in Zimbabwe with a US$10 million from the SDG Fund and additional US$35 million of blending finance from private sector such as Old Mutual.
“My proposal is we should have a Zimbabwe SDG implementation costed plan within the NDS-1 and 2, a direct matrix from the 2030 National Vision to become upper middle-income society.
“Reforming trade policies to guarantee fair market access for developing countries is crucial. Strategic partnerships can unlock economic opportunities, allowing nations to harness their resources sustainably.”
Kallon added that by implementing these strategies, Zimbabwe—a nation endowed with abundant natural resources and a rich cultural heritage—can effectively tackle its climatic and economic challenges. He also revealed that the conference offers a unique platform for ambitious and compassionate collaboration and all efforts being made now will shape a future of shared prosperity, justice, and environmental sustainability, securing a prosperous and equitable path for Zimbabwe and nations worldwide.
He further reiterated that the UN Country Team in Zimbabwe stands ready to work with all stakeholders to support the Government to achieve the national vision to become upper middle income society by 2030 and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in the face of climate change.
NAC CEO, Dr Bernard Madzima, addressing Parliamentarians at the New ParliamentBuilding
BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA
Zimbabwe’s HIV programmes should be guided by science if we are to attain the goal of ending AIDS by 2030, National AIDS Council (NAC) Chief Executive Officer, Dr Bernard Madzima has said.
Dr Madzima said that it would be most appreciated if the evidence and data gathered in local.
He said this while speaking at the Parliamentarians HIV and AIDS Sensitization Workshop organised by NAC at the New Parliament Building on Friday.
Dr Madzima was updating legislators on the International Conference on AIDS and STIs in Africa (ICASA) 2023 which the country hosted, as he added that it was a great success.
Dr Madzima also said the ICASA 2023 report which is now out, spoke to several issues.
“The outcomes of ICASA 2023 spoke also to issues of leadership; that we need a strong leadership if we are going to have success in the HIV space, but also to have our programmes in Zimbabwe being led by science, being led by evidence.
“We want to ensure that we implement programmes where we have evidence and data to show us and this data will be most appreciated if its local data.
“So we want to encourage our scientists to research and also the other issue which came out was that communities should take charge of HIV programmes.
“So all this is now guiding the HIV and AIDS programme as we go towards the 2030 targets,” said Dr Madzima.
He also applauded President Emmerson Mnangagwa for his commitment for the country to host ICASA 2023.
“I know some of you really attended the events which took place in Victoria Falls and in Harare.
“The report for ICASA 2023 is out and I would like to say that it was a great success and I would really want to thank all Zimbabweans, starting with his Excellency, the President DR E.D. Mnangagwa for his commitment to hosting the event.
“The country showcased its excellency in various aspects including tourism and indeed it showed that Zimbabwe was open for business,” added Dr Madzima.
The ICASA 2023 report shows that 8 118 participants from 105 countries convened for the conference and women were 45 percent of that number.
Last year was the second time the country has hosted ICASA, after initially hosting it in 2015.
Over 400 cyclists are expected to participate at this year’s Pedal-2-Wellness event, which will be held under the theme “Pedal against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.”
The cycling event which is organised by iGo, Cimas Health Group’s wellness division, is in its second year and will be held next Saturday.
This was revealed by Cimas Health Group Chief Executive Officer, Vuli Ndlovu, ahead of the cycling event which is meant to promote physical well-being.
“Open to elite, and social cyclists including children, this year’s Pedal-2-Wellness, event will be held under the theme, “Pedal against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking” with more than 400 cyclists expected to participate.
“Pedal-2-Wellness is part of Cimas’s broader commitment to promoting health and wellness to foster a healthier society.
“I urge cyclists to bring their helmets and bikes to Pedal against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking,” said Ndlovu.
Ndlovu revealed that the event also promotes cardio fitness and raises awareness of drug and substance abuse.
“Cycling is not just about getting from one place to another, it is about enhancing our overall wellbeing. As more people choose to cycle, we can collectively work towards a healthier, greener, and more sustainable future.”
Speaking on the growing need for alternative transportation options, Ndlovu emphasised the importance of creating a safer environment for cyclists.
“Apart from offering remarkable benefits for physical health, cycling offers a safer and more environmentally friendly mode of transport.
“However, to fully realise these benefits, our City council must invest in infrastructure that ensures the safety of cyclists on the road,” Ndlovu said.
He added that there is a need for dedicated cycling lanes and proper signage to encourage more people to embrace cycling as a viable mode of transportation.
“Incorporating safer cycling infrastructure would not only reduce the risk of accidents but also contribute to reducing traffic congestion and lowering carbon emissions,” noted Ndlovu.
He underscored the need for collaborative efforts amongst the city council, corporate entities, and the public to make cycling a safer and more accessible option for all.
He also revealed that registration to participate at the Pedal-2-Wellness is being done online with the elite and social cyclists paying US$5 while children under the age of 13 will participate for free.
The event will start at 7:30 AM with the 45-km ride, followed by the fun ride at 7:45 AM and the children’s ride at 8:00 AM.
“Participants under the age of 13 years will cycle on the iGo strip and perimeter road of Borrowdale racecourse (4.5km), while those over 13 years will cycle on the road along the demarcated route (22.5km) from Borrowdale Office Park.
“The elite cyclists will complete two laps of the race, which is 45km, and there will be two water points, at the start and finish point of the race.
“As a safety measure, all participants are expected to wear helmets, which are available for hire at the venue on the day.
“Participants will receive a T-shirt and a medal after completing the event. As part of Cimas’ Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, part of the proceeds from the event will be donated to Chikurubi Psychiatric Unit, which supports mental health causes,” added Ndlovu.
The success which the country enjoys in its HIV and AIDS response is greatly attributed to the dedication of Community and Village Health Workers, who tirelessly to deliver various services to the people, Speaker of Parliament, Advocate Jacob Mudenda has said.
Advocate Mudenda said Community and Village Health Workers confidently deliver health policies with regards to HIV, hence the country enjoys the results of such dedication.
He said this on Friday in his key note address during the National AIDS Council (NAC), Parliamentarians HIV and AIDS Sensitization Workshop which was held at the New Parliament Building.
“We have seen how these workers are dedicated, dedicated walking on foot, walking on foot from village to village.
“How I wish many of us would be inspired, the majority of us want to be supervised but these men and women are on their own, carrying out government policies, trying to uplift the communities among whom they work as far as healthcare is concerned.
“I don’t know how they were trained, but what I can I tell you from those I have met is that they have confidence in their implementation of the health policies regarding HIV,” said Advocate Mudenda.
He also revealed that the country’s HIV response has been a huge success, showing resilience in the face of numerous challenges.
Advocate Mudenda said Zimbabwe had managed to achieve the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) 95-95-95 targets.
The targets aim to ensure that 95 percent of people living with HIV know their status, 95 percent of those diagnosed with HIV are on antiretroviral therapy (ART) and 95 percent of those on ART achieve viral suppression.
Advocate Mudenda further revealed that these milestones speak to leadership commitment, the dedication of health professionals, the effectiveness of public health policies, and the strong partnerships the country has forged with civil society, international donors and development partners.
“It is critical to note that these successes were anchored on a robust legislative, policy and institutional framework. “At the heart of this health response was the robust primary healthcare system which has been the cornerstone of delivering HIV-related services to communities across the country.
“It is through this network of clinics, health centres, and importantly, Community and Village Health Workers that who have been able to expand access to HIV testing, treatment and care.
“These workers are the frontline soldiers for many Zimbabweans seeking healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas where access to medical facilities is constrained.
“Community Health Workers have played a pivotal role in demystifying HIV, promoting voluntary counselling and testing (VCT), providing treatment adherence support and acting as a bridge between the healthcare system and the community.
“Without them, many of the most vulnerable populations would have been left behind.
“Yet, despite their critical role, we are faced with the worrying challenge of high staff attrition rates among healthcare professionals.
“Nurses, doctors and community health workers are increasingly leaving the country in search of the perceived greener pastures,” he said.
The Speaker of Parliament revealed that there is a deficit of 16 000 Village Health Workers, against a national target of 30,000.
He also revealed that according to the Zimbabwe Health Workforce Investment Compact, (2024 – 2026), Zimbabwe faces a need-based shortage of 57,573 health professionals and specialists.
“This attrition threatens the sustainability of the HIV programmes and other related healthcare imperatives. “However, it is encouraging that the Second Republic led by the visionary President Cde. Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa is putting in place effective skills retention measures to contain the situation.
“As such, health personnel that continue to shoulder on must be celebrated for their dedicated patriotism,” added Advocate Mudenda.
Happy moments…Japanese Ambassador to Zimbabwe, His Excellency Shinichi Yamanaka, shares a lighter moment with Speaker of Parliament, Advocate Jacob Mudenda, during the former’s courtesy call
BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA
Zimbabwe is set to benefit from Japanese development experiences when Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Special Adviser, Dr Shinichi Kitaoka, gives a lecture to Parliamentarians and Senators during his scheduled visit next month.
This was revealed by the Japanese Ambassador to Zimbabwe, His Excellency Shinichi Yamanaka, when he paid a courtesy call on Speaker of Parliament Advocate Jacob Mudenda at New Parliament Building in Mount Hampden on Friday.
Ambassador Yamanaka said Dr Kitaoka’s lecture titled “Japan’s Development Journey”, will be delivered on October 8.
“Objectives of the lecture are to share information on Japan’s development experience, to identify lessons from Japan, for developing countries in Africa and to exchange ideas on development opportunities and paths for Africa.”
His Excellency Yamanaka further said that “we hope this lecture will contribute for the Sustainable Development of Zimbabwe based upon the past experiences of Japan.
“After the World War 2, we had a very difficult situation but we achieved and developed so maybe we can give some lessons to Zimbabwean people and Parliamentarians.”
The impending lecture is said to have been culmination of prior discussions which Ambassador Yamanaka had with Advocate Mudenda during a courtesy call in January this year.
It is said Advocate Mudenda had expressed his desire to learn from the Japanese development experience and Ambassador Yamanaka proposed to have Dr Kitaoka deliver a lecture.
JICA is said to have started establishing JICA Chair Lecture Series at various foreign universities and government entities in 2021.
And over the years, the programme has benefited countries such as Mozambique, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Kenya, South Sudan, Madagascar and South Africa.
Prior to becoming Special Adviser to JICA, Dr Kitaoka is said to have been the President of JICA and previously, he was President of the International University of Japan.
“Dr Kitaoka’s academic career includes Professorship posts at top institutions such as: National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS); Graduate Schools of Law and Politics, University of Tokyo; and College of Law and Politics, Rikkyo University.
“He also served as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Deputy Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations (2004-2006).
“Dr Kitaoka is an expert in modern Japanese politics and diplomacy.
“His qualifications include, BA (1971) and PhD (1976), both from the University of Tokyo. Dr Kitaoka is Emeritus Professor of the University of Tokyo. He is published author with various books and articles in Japanese and English. He is a recipient of several honours and awards including the Medal with Purple Ribbon for his academic achievements in 2011.”
Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Dr Frederick Shava
BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA
Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Dr Frederick Shava, has said Zimbabwe is committed to the full and effective implementation of the objectives of the Summit of Future, which is set to be held on September 22 and 23 in New York, United States.
Minister Shava said this while delivering his keynote address on “International Peace and Security”, at the pre-Summit Engagement meeting in Harare on Thursday.
According the United Nations, the Summit of the Future is a high-level event, bringing world leaders together to forge a new international consensus on how we deliver a better present and safeguard the future.
“I take this opportunity to reaffirm Zimbabwe’s commitment to the full and effective implementation of the objectives of the Summit of the Future which inter alia, seek ways of enhancing cooperation on critical challenges and building peaceful, just and inclusive societies, and to ensure the lasting protection of the planet and its natural resources and move towards a reinvigorated multilateral system that can effectively tackle the challenges of today and tomorrow for the sake of humanity.
“Zimbabwe is of the view that the Pact for the Future captures our collective dedication to restoring trust, and reaffirming the principles of the United Nations Charter with a view to promoting peace, security and sustainable development across the world.
“These aspirations align with the priorities of the African Union Peace and Security Council and SADC peace building initiatives.
“The current conflicts across the globe are stretching our multilateral system to its limit.
“Now, more than ever, we need to ensure that multilateral institutions are effective, fit-for-purpose, and responsive to the growing insecurity across the world,” he said.
Minister Shava added that there is need for a significant reform of the multilateral system, particularly, the United Nations Security Council, whose mandate is to ensure the maintenance of global peace and security.
He further revealed that a reformed, democratic and representative Security Council is the only chance to address the multifaceted security challenges which are currently being faced, whose causes and drivers have grown to include climate change, poverty, economic crises, and natural disasters.
“On its part, Zimbabwe hopes for the opportunity to meaningfully contribute to matters of global peace and security, as a Non-Permanent Member of the Council for the period 2027 to 2028.
“Zimbabwe looks forward to playing an integral role in the maintenance of regional peace and security, following the assumption of the Chairmanship of SADC by the President, His Excellency, Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa.
“Our region enjoys relative peace and security, a result of its commitment to uphold its sovereign and territorial integrity.
“The peace that prevails in Southern Africa, continues to create a conducive environment for sustainable development, as there can be no sustainable development without peace and no peace without sustainable development.
“In instances where we have faced security challenges within our region, we have prioritized dialogue, and strengthening political cooperation, and enhancing democracy, good governance, and human security.
“Where requested, SADC has, and will continue to render military assistance to ensure the collective security of the region,” he said.
Minister Shava further shared that Zimbabwe firmly believes in the principle of “African solutions for African problems”, hence the country does not only call for the reform of the UN Security Council; but supports increased coordination between the UN Security Council and continental and regional peace and security mechanisms, to ensure synergy in our peace and security efforts.
“At national level, Zimbabwe has a long history of contributing to United Nations peacekeeping missions on the African continent and beyond.
“Our female security personnel, in particular, continue to serve with distinction during their deployments and have earned a stellar reputation for dedication to duty.
“Their performance has encouraged us to continue promoting active involvement of women in international peace initiatives.
“To this end, Government launched in May 2024, the Zimbabwe National Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security, aligning with UN Security Council Resolution 1325.
“Guided by this National Action Plan, Government will continue to ensure that women are not just beneficiaries of peace and security initiatives, but active participants.”
He also revealed that Government has introduced various initiatives aimed at addressing issues of peace, national cohesion and reconciliation through the National Peace and Reconciliation Commission.
“Through these initiatives, Government is facilitating the resolution of various historical sources of conflict, and steering the country towards national healing.
“As I conclude, I reiterate Zimbabwe’s commitment to playing its part towards the maintenance of peace and security in the region, continent, and beyond, and reaffirm the central role of the United Nations in this regard.”
UN Resident and Humanitarian CoordinatorEdward Kallon
Speaking at the same meeting, Edward Kallon, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator said the objective remains to foster a future that is equitable, sustainable and just.
“The Summit of the Future, an initiative by the United Nations that will take place from 22-23 September 2024 in New York, serves as a vital platform for nations worldwide to engage in multilateral dialogue, confronting global challenges.
“For Zimbabwe, this summit is pivotal in supporting its national objectives, propelling economic, social, and democratic transformations towards sustainable development and climate-smart, green industrialization.”
He added: “this event signifies a crucial step in our journey towards the forthcoming Summit of the Future, an initiative that encapsulates our collective aspirations and addresses the urgent challenges of our era.
“The Summit of the Future stands not merely as an event on a calendar but rather a global movement designed to revitalize the essential foundations of global governance, international cooperation, and multilateralism.
“We are guided by the enduring principles of the UN Charter, a steadfast pillar supporting global peace, security, sustainable development, and human rights for over seventy years.
“This Charter obliges us to ensure that no one is left behind.
“Within Zimbabwe, our national consultations are invaluable; they affirm our understanding that local perspectives are integral to the broader global conversation.
“In the last few weeks and days, by involving media professionals, youth from all 10 provinces of the country, and members of the diplomatic corps, we have ensured that diverse voices are woven into the international tapestry.
“This vibrant blend of local dialogue and national perspective will illuminate the path towards a thorough Compact of the Future,” said Kallon.
some of the delegates who attended the pre-Summit Engagement meeting
Several stakeholders including senior government officials, members of the Diplomatic Corps, national and international development partners and several other delegates attended the pre-Summit Engagement, which was the last before the Summit of the Future in New York in a few days time.
Minister of Health and Child Care, Dr Douglas Mombeshora (far left) congratulates NewsSpace Reporter, Munyaradzi Doma, while NAC CEO Dr Bernard Madzima (second from right) and AIDS Healthcare Foundation, Country Program Manager, Dr Enerst Chikwatilook on
BY NEWSSPACE REPORTER
The media has a critical role in the HIV response, as it has the important mandate of giving the public the correct information, Minister of Health and Child Care, Dr Douglas Mombeshora has said.
Minister Mombeshora revealed this on Wednesday at the 8th National AIDS Council Media Awards Prize Giving Ceremony which was held in Harare.
And at the awards ceremony whose purpose is to celebrate journalists who consistently and accurately report on HIV and AIDS issues; NewsSpace Reporter, Munyaradzi Doma was awarded 2nd Position in the Online Category.
Minister Mombeshora revealed that the awards have now “become the most consistent and prestigious recognition of media excellence in reporting and covering HIV and related diseases.”
He added: “Zimbabwe adopted the multi-sectoral approach to HIV, which has enabled various sectors to participate and contribute to national efforts in taming the pandemic.
“The media has therefore always been part of the response to HIV from when the virus was first identified.
“It was the media that first raised awareness and educated people about HIV. Even though initial reports were fear inducing, they did what they were expected to achieve and our people became aware of HIV.”
Dr Mombeshora further revealed that, “the media remains a critical enabler of development and in particular a healthy nation.
“We need vibrant media that purvey correct information to the public for better health outcomes.
“I am very pleased that the National AIDS Council took this bold step to introduce the awards, which will without a doubt, create a healthy competition, which in turn will result in improved coverage in terms of both quality and quantity of coverage.
“I have been informed that coverage of HIV and health reporting in general have improved since the introduction of these awards eight years ago.”
Dr Mombeshora also revealed that the country had achieved tremendous successes in the response to HIV as we stand at a critical juncture towards epidemic control and sustaining it.
He also revealed that latest global evidence has indicated that Zimbabwe achieved the highest HIV decline between 2010 and 2023 than any other country.
“We have also achieved the 95-95-95 targets and our people living with HIV are living longer improved lives.
“These achievements must be sustained. You will agree with me it’s not an easy task as we continue to be diverted by various other health challenges, including emergences such as COVID-19 and M-pox.
“These emergencies are providing us with critical lessons going forward, particularly the need to build a robust and broad-based health system that emphasizes universal health coverage and anchored on a sustainable primary health care system.
“An all-inclusive public funded health insurance is therefore imperative as we strengthen our health system to adequately respond to regular conditions and emergencies.
“Ladies and gentlemen, this shows that HIV does not occur in isolation as there are several social, economic and health factors that affect it. Already we are faced with rising cases of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), most of which are associated with HIV, especially cervical cancer.
“We therefore need to scale up interventions in this regard, keeping our people informed and how they can prevent the NCDs as well as creating pathways to care,” said Dr Mombeshora.
Minister Mombeshora (front row, second from left) and other dignitaries, pose for picture with the winners
Minister Mombeshora said the media hence a critical role of informing the people as well as highlighting both successes and deficiencies of our response.
“Robust policies and programmes result from broad-based engagement that is influenced by awareness and access to information.
“There are areas in our response in which such vibrant engagement is required to address attendant gaps.
“While our 95-95-95 coverage is commendable among adults, we are still lagging behind among children.
“We are also witnessing more cases of HIV among adolescent girls and young women and key populations.
“We therefore need multi-stakeholder engagement to identify and address challenges that cause bottle necks in these areas.
“We are counting on the media to report such gaps and amplify voices of those affected so that together we can find lasting solutions to the challenges.
“While there are thousands of reporters doing the same work, there are some among them who are going an extra mile.
“They do it better because they are driven by a passion for quality and for social change, towards a better society.
“They invest that passion together with time and creativity to produce socially impacting news and feature articles. Today, ladies and gentlemen, is about celebrating those who go an extra mile – who do not wait for news but seek news and creatively report it to create social change,” he added.
He applauded all editors and journalists who are dedicated to keep the nation informed about HIV and AIDS and all other health issues surrounding the people.
NewsSpace Reporter, Munyaradzi Doma poses with his certificate and shield
In his welcome remarks at the awards, NAC Chief Executive Officer, Dr Bernard Madzima said the media awards are predicated on the need to keep the HIV story alive in the face of competing stories from other sectors and the general belief that HIV is no longer an interesting topic given our progress in preventing new cases and scaling up Anti-Retroviral Therapy coverage.
“We therefore started the media awards to revitalise coverage and promote excellence among reporters and media houses.
“Apart from the ordinary competition from economic, political and societal stories, the HIV story has faced competition from emerging epidemics such as COVID-19 and Mpox and non-communicable diseases.
“We do not seek to create competition for media coverage between HIV and other health issues but to promote integrated health reporting cognizant of the link between HIV and these issues.
“These awards are an addition to the already functional partnership that we have with the media. Our partnership includes taking both editors and journalists on media tours to some hard-to-reach communities to facilitate coverage of key interventions and media workshops.
“We also regularly support top winners of these awards to attend various international HIV conference, resources permitting,” he said.
He added that for them, the media awards are more than just about giving prizes, as they are also about making an impact in people’s lives.
“Well-wishers have responded to some of the stories journalists have covered during NAC media tours and workshops and paid school fees for a number of girls in various Sista2Sista Clubs.
“The latest in this case is a girl based in Hurungwe who received a scholarship for her university education, financed by a UK based well-wisher.
“Following stories on SASA, which is a community mobilization approach to prevent violence against women, three perpetrators of gender-based violence came forward and openly spoke to the community leaders in Shamva about how radio stories on gender-based violence in their area had led them to change their ways.
“We also have a case of one girl from a Sista2Sista Club who has been invited for on the job training at a media house to develop her interest as a journalist, after field interviews by reporters in Mhangura.
“I would also like to applaud some journalists, who I won’t mention but they pooled resources to pay school fees for needy and vulnerable girls identified during a media tour,” added Dr Madzima.
He also revealed that in line with the rules of the awards, winners were selected through media monitoring so as not to promote prize driven reporters.
“Our awards are anchored on recognition of passion, consistency and correctness.”
Journalists were awarded in the Online, Print, Electronic and Most Promising Categories, while others got certificates of appreciation for consistent reporting on HIV and AIDS issues.
NEWSSPACE 