Zimbabwe – Page 6

“Inspire Inclusion: Combating HIV, Advancing Rights”

**Jane Kalweo – UNAIDS Country Director, Zimbabwe**

BY JANE KALWEO

The world is significantly off course in meeting the gender targets set by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). At the current pace, it will take an estimated 300 years to eradicate child marriage, 140 years to achieve equal representation of women in positions of power and leadership in the workplace, and 47 years to attain equal representation in national parliaments.

As of December 2023, women’s representation in Zimbabwe’s Parliament stood at 34%, falling short of global targets on gender parity in legislative bodies. However, evidence has shown that when women lead, they contribute to more just, equitable, and inclusive societies. Women encounter numerous challenges when running for public office. Addressing legal and policy environments and other barriers that limit women’s political participation is crucial to leveling the playing field. To foster more just and equitable societies, we need to advance the agenda of proportional representation for men and women in parliament. Given that women face a disproportionate burden of HIV, women leadership would significantly contribute to legal and policy reforms that address gaps and barriers in the HIV continuum of care for women and children.

The global debt crisis and pandemics are reducing investment in education, health, and social protection, disproportionately affecting women and girls. Unequal access to education has left 122 million girls out of school, denying them lifesaving information on how to protect themselves from HIV. The unprecedented disruption to education during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated inequalities in access to education for girls. School closures and economic hardships increased the risk of child marriages as families sought to alleviate financial burdens. In 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic, 1174 cases of child marriages were recorded, and 4959 girls became pregnant.

The SDG of ending AIDS by 2030 is also at risk. Every week in 2022, 4000 adolescent girls and young women aged 15-24 became infected with HIV globally, largely due to inequalities in accessing HIV services. When girls’ rights to education and empowerment are realized, their vulnerability to HIV is reduced. In Zimbabwe, HIV incidence among adolescent girls and young women is more than three times higher than among their male counterparts. Many factors increase the vulnerability of girls and young women, including harmful gender norms such as gender-based violence, gender inequalities that exclude them from economic opportunities, and poverty. The Zimbabwean government, through the Zimbabwe National HIV and AIDS Strategic Plan (ZNASP) IV Addendum, has committed to reducing inequalities to less than 10% of women and girls experiencing gender-based inequalities and gender-based violence in efforts to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

Despite many challenges, women in Zimbabwe have been at the forefront of driving change and leading in the HIV response since the beginning of the pandemic. However, funding shortages, capacity gaps, and regulatory environments limit their ability to effectively contribute to the agenda of ending AIDS by 2030. There is a need for sustained investment in independent, autonomous feminist movements. Progress can only be sustained by putting power in the hands of those whose lives are most impacted by the denial of rights.

The health of young women and girls today is too often shaped by gender-based inequalities and gender-based violence, which increases the risk of HIV infection. One in three women worldwide experience sexual or gender-based violence. Gender-based violence remains one of the most pervasive human rights violations affecting women in Zimbabwe. The ZDHS 2015 estimates that one in three women aged between 15 and 49 has experienced physical violence, and one in four women have experienced sexual violence. Addressing gender inequality and gender-based violence is critical to ending AIDS and accelerating progress towards achieving the SDGs.

UNAIDS Commends the Government of Zimbabwe for showing its commitment to ending gender-based violence through the 2023-2030 National Strategy to Prevent and Address Gender-Based Violence. The strategy highlights priority areas for the country and outlines specific actions and strategies for the government and society in their efforts to prevent and respond to GBV in general, and violence against women and girls in particular.

Prevalence rates for child marriages in Zimbabwe remain unacceptably high. An estimated 34% of girls are married before reaching 18 years, and 5% before the age of 15. Ending child marriages and their devastating consequences on the health, development, and well-being of adolescent girls and young women is critical for the advancement of their human rights. The Zimbabwean government has committed to ending child marriages through the Marriages Act and has gazetted the Criminal Laws Amendment (Protection of Children and Young Persons) Bill, 2024. These instruments criminalize the marriage and facilitation of marriage of anyone under the age of 18.

To protect women and girls’ economic and social rights, there is a need to fully invest in women to achieve the 2030 SDGs. This investment is not just about financial resources; it’s about creating an environment where women and girls can thrive, free from violence and discrimination, and where they can realize their full potential.

As we commemorate International Women’s Day, UNAIDS reiterates the need to empower women, combat HIV, advance rights, and position women at the center of HIV response, Human rights, and empowerment.

The Remarkable Legacy of Cde. Dr Karikoga Kaseke: A Lifetime of Service and Leadership

**The late Dr Karikoga Kaseke**, **former Zimbabwe Toursim Authority Chief Executive**

BY KASEKE FAMILY

Harare, Zimbabwe – The people of Zimbabwe and the broader community reflect on the immense contributions of a distinguished servant, Cde. Dr. Karikoga Kaseke, affectionately known as KK. From his humble beginnings to his notable roles within Zimbabwe’s military, transportation, aviation, and tourism sectors, KK has left an indelible mark on the nation and its people.

Born on June 16, 1962, at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital, Harare, KK embarked on an educational journey that showcased his brilliance from an early age. Despite pausing his studies to join the Liberation War in 1978, KK returned to excel academically and professionally, achieving degrees in Administration, Business, Strategy, and Tourism. His peers often compared his generosity and kindness to that of a local “Mother Theresa,” highlighting his unmatched support and benevolence within his community.

KK’s youthful contribution to the Liberation struggle underlined his dedication and willingness to put country before self. His post-independence military service saw him rise within the Zimbabwe National Army, emphasizing his leadership in intelligence and counter-intelligence sectors.

Transitioning to the transport and aviation sector, KK’s leadership prowess flourished as he assumed roles from Chief Security Officer at the Department of Civil Aviation to CEO of the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (CAAZ), bringing significant advancements to the nation’s airport infrastructure.

However, it was as the Chief Executive of the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) from 2003-2018 that KK truly transformed the tourism landscape of Zimbabwe. Under his leadership, Zimbabwe achieved several milestones, including hosting the prestigious 20th session of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) General Assembly in 2013, revitalizing the Zimbabwe International Carnival, implementing the Zimbabwe Tourism Development Strategy, establishing the “Visit Zimbabwe” campaign, and significantly increasing tourist arrivals through strategic infrastructure and facility investments.

KK’s unwavering loyalty to country’s ZANU PF epitomized his commitment to his country and its people. His life’s work, characterized by forthrightness, bravery, and generosity, leaves a legacy that will inspire future generations.

As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate a life well-lived, dedicated to the betterment of Zimbabwe and its people. Dr. Kaseke’s contributions to national development, community service, and political loyalty will forever be cherished and remembered.

Mourners are gathered at 38 Boscobel Drive in Highlands. Details of the burial arrangements will be communicated in due course.

To protect everyone’s health, protect everyone’s rights

BY JANE KALWEO

This Friday 1 March, is Zero Discrimination Day, established 10 years ago by UNAIDS to protect the rights of everyone and build healthier societies. The evidence is clear: only by protecting everyone’s rights, can we protect everyone’s health.

There is much to celebrate.

Zimbabwe is one of the few countries in sub-Saharan Africa which has reached and surpassed the 95–95–95 targets. The country has reached 95 percent for the number of HIV-positive people knowing their status, 98 percent of HIV-positive people on ART and has reached the target of 95 percent of people taking ARV’s virally suppressed. The number of new HIV infections has also decreased by 78 percent from 78 000 in 2010 to 17 000 in 2022. These results have been achieved through the Government’s commitment to follow the evidence in the implementation of a combination of behavioral, biomedical, and structural prevention interventions targeted at diverse groups based on their needs, as prioritized in national strategic plans.

Although there has been remarkable progress in Zimbabwe towards reaching the global targets, inequalities continue to pose barriers to accessing lifesaving services for marginalized groups such as Key Populations, Adolescent Girls, and Young Women (AGYW) and People Living with HIV (PLHIV). The 2022 People Living with HIV Stigma Index 2.0 for Zimbabwe indicated an increase in stigma and discrimination against PLHIV from 65% in 2014 to 69.7% in 2022. The country, through its Zimbabwe National HIV AIDS Strategic Plan 2021 -2025 (ZNASP 2021- 2025) has identified addressing stigma and discrimination by strengthening community-led reporting mechanisms and developing comprehensive programmes to reduce stigma and discrimination, as a critical enablers towards attaining the goal of eliminating AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

When marginalized communities are criminalized or stigmatized, their vulnerability to HIV infection increases, and their access to HIV prevention, treatment, care, and support services is obstructed. Laws which criminalize HIV transmission have proven to be ineffective, discriminatory and undermine efforts to reduce new HIV infections UNAIDS is advocating for legal reform aimed at decriminalization in areas such as: HIV exposure, non-disclosure, and transmission; key populations’ sexual relations; and drug possession and use. This ensures access to services and is a crucial step in ending AIDS as a global public health threat.

Every week in 2022, 4000 adolescent girls and young women aged 15-24 became infected with HIV globally, in large part because their rights are not respected. When girls’ rights to education and empowerment are realized, then their vulnerability to HIV is greatly reduced. In Zimbabwe HIV incidence among adolescent girls and young women is more than three times higher than among their male counterparts. The HIV incidence among young women who are 15 -24 years was 0.25 which is 3.6 times higher than their male counterparts 0.07, in Zimbabwe deeply entrenched gender inequalities and discrimination, often combined with significant levels of poverty, increase their risk of HIV infection, among Adolescent Girls and Young Women. It is vital to advance safe societies so that young women can protect their health and wellbeing.

Countries that are beating the AIDS epidemic are doing so by repealing laws and policies that discriminate, by expanding human rights for all and by allowing marginalized communities to lead the response. Progress towards eliminating AIDS as a public health threat has been strengthened by ensuring that legal and policy frameworks do not undermine human rights, but instead enable and protect them. It is commendable that in 2022, Parliament of Zimbabwe repealed section 79 of the Criminal Law Code, which criminalized HIV transmission. The rights path strengthens entire societies, making them better equipped to deal with the challenges we face today and those that are emerging.

Public health is undermined when laws, policies, practices, or norms enshrine punishment, discrimination, or stigma for people because they are women, migrants, key populations, (includes sex workers, and people who use drugs). Discrimination obstructs HIV prevention, testing, treatment, and care, and holds back progress towards the end of AIDS.

We have hope, however, from communities on the frontlines. As Dr. Martin Luther King noted, “Social progress never rolls in on wheels of inevitability; it comes through the tireless efforts of people.” It is the communities most affected by discrimination that are leading the pushback against the erosion of their right to health, against the right to life. They are uniting their efforts to protect and advance human rights. They need, and deserve, all our support.

Protecting everyone’s rights is not a favor to any group but is the way that we can protect everyone’s health, end AIDS and create happier societies for all.

Contact

By Jane KALWEO – UNAIDS Country Director, Zimbabwe| tel. +2634338836-41

UNAIDS

The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) leads and inspires the world to achieve its shared vision of zero new HIV infections, zero discrimination and zero AIDS-related deaths. UNAIDS unites the efforts of 11 UN organizations—UNHCR, UNICEF, WFP, UNDP, UNFPA, UNODC, UN Women, ILO, UNESCO, WHO and the World Bank—and works closely with global and national partners towards ending the AIDS epidemic by 2030 as part of the Sustainable Development Goals. Learn more at unaids.org and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

To protect everyone’s health, protect everyone’s rights

BY JANE KALWEO

There is much to celebrate.

Protecting everyone’s rights is not a favor to any group but is the way that we can protect everyone’s health, end AIDS and create happier societies for all.

Contact

By Jane KALWEO – UNAIDS Country Director, Zimbabwe| tel. +2634338836-41

UNAIDS

SADC Helpline Project; a ray of hope for adolescents and young people

**Tatenda Songore, Youth Advocates Executive Director**

BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA

A SADC helpline project which is being implemented in Zimbabwe, Botswana and Malawi has reached over 22 000 adolescents and young people to access integrated HIV services.

The projected which was piloted in three districts in the three countries, Zvishavane (Zimbabwe), Francistown (Botswana) and Zomba (Malawi) has been famed for improving the wellbeing of youths.

Tatenda Songore, Executive Director of Youth Advocates who are spearheading the project also revealed that they have gone beyond issues to do with HIV prevention or treatment, to include other social support services.

“All of the 22 000 youths have been actually tested for HIV and we have managed to get at least 4 percent of them who were diagnosed HIV positive and they were put on treatment.

“We are very excited also on the fact that 94 percent of young people who were diagnosed HIV positive are on treatment, actually the figure is 96 percent, which means we have surpassed the 95 percent target for the UNAIDS.

“So these are the key achievements and we are looking at scaling up this project.

“The impact of this project has been seen beyond HIV prevention, to address issues of drug and substance, gender based violence to also helping young people to return back to school after they were out of school because of different problems.

“We know that when young people are out of school, they are more vulnerable to risky behaviour and HIV so we have been able to return young people using 393 helpline within the three countries,” said Songore.

Both Malawi and Zimbabwe use 393 toll free helplines while for Botswana it’s 16658, which youths can access and get help on various issues affecting them.

When the youths call the toll free lines, they are helped through ongoing counselling services, information dissemination and referral to services and follow-up on the uptake of such services.

Songore further revealed that those youths who were having challenges with drug and substance abuse, were given mental health support.

“Some of the most interesting achievements of this project also look at how we were also able to look beyond the fact that when young people are on drug and substance abuse, they are more vulnerable to GBV.

“They are more vulnerable to risky behaviour and we have been able to support about 7 000 young people who were showing symptoms of drug and substance use and we have also been able to put them on mental health support beyond the project,” he revealed.

He also revealed that since drug and substance abuse is now a pandemic in the region, they had been able to leverage on the HIV fund from SADC which has seen them addressing several issues that put young people at risk.

Further commenting on the 393 toll free youth helpline, Songore said when any young person in the country uses it, they can make a call or whatsapp or use chat box where they can be educated using written formats, video and audio formats.

He also revealed that the platform has registered tremendous success because over 90 percent of users complete their courses unlike the traditional way of communicating with young people.

“They (youths) are more concentrated, they are more focused, they do it at their own pace and we are able to address multiple issues from HIV.

“We are also able to address mental health, we are also able to address emerging issues like cholera and we also able to respond and educate young people on measles as well,” added Songore.

He also revealed that in Zimbabwe they had piloted the SADC Youth Help Line in Zvishavane “because of high activity of artisanal miners, issues of drug and substance abuse, issues of young people who were dropping out of school and going to do artisanal mining.

“Child marriages are also very rampant, so we explored Zvishavane to try and explore those issues using mobile technology and we have been very effective because in Zvishavane alone, we reached 8 600 young people in a period of two years and in a rural community, this is very much a significant figure.”

Speaking at the same function, Jeremia Manyika, UNAIDS Zimbabwe: Adviser: Equality and Rights for all; said it was commendable to see young people showing leadership, adding that it was resonating well with the last year’s International Conference on AIDS and STIs in Africa (ICASA) theme, “let communities lead”.

“We are really emphasizing the theme of let communities lead, we are very delighted that we see the communities actually leading and when we say communities we are actually talking about the actual people that are affected and infected by HIV.

“And in this case we talking about young people and they are there in their numbers leading the project and we are very elated and happy about that development,” he said.

He added that it was good that partners had collaborated to make this a success for the benefit of young people.

“Again to reiterate our theme let communities lead, the UNAIDS Global AIDS strategy provides guidance to countries towards ending AIDS by 2030 and we are talking about what we call the 30-60-80 and these are targets that are really important if we are to meet them we will be able to end AIDS by 2030.

“We are saying 30 percent of HIV treatment services should be led by communities and when we say communities of young people it is young people who should be leading the services.

“Then 60 percent of programmes to address barriers to HIV care and support should also be led by communities and when we talk of communities, communities of young people should be leading the programmes to end stigma, to end discrimination to address barriers to HIV care and support and 80 percentage of programmes for women, young people and key populations must be led and coordinated by women, young people and the key populations themselves for us to be able to end AIDS within those communities let communities lead.

“So the 30-60-80 targets are a reality when we witness communities taking leadership and ownership of programmes as we see in this intervention, the call line 393.

“Am happy to note that the intervention has contributed significantly to achieving the 95-95-95 targets by increasing uptake of…HIV testing services by young people.

“As we move towards sustainability approaches to the HIV epidemic, we are excited to see communities lead and we are excited to see communities lead initiatives that demonstrate effective engagement of young people in their diversity to ensure that no-one and no place is left behind.

“It is noteworthy that the youth helpline goes beyond HIV prevention and treatment to address broader issues of social protection, mental health, gender based violence substance abuse among other challenges being faced by young people,” added Manyika.

Freeman Dube, Research and Documentation Coordinator at National Aids Council (NAC) said they had endorsed the project which had not only improved the lives of young people but also adults.

“We should celebrate those achievements and we as NAC have even said what is good as the way forward, is we integrate the work of the call centre within existing programmes.

“And by the way the capacity of the line is not only for Zvishavane District although it was the focus of the SADC project, the capacity is national, so our districts as NAC is to integrate promotional activities for the call centre to be utilized across the country,” said Dube.

Thando Madondo, who is one of the beneficiaries of the Youth Advocates project said he was supported in his passion for music, recording three songs.

He also revealed that the empowerment by Youth Advocates had been a good escape for him as some of his peers in his community have fallen to drugs.

“On the issue of drug and substance abuse, I know for a fact that they will ruin one’s life, you won’t make any progress.

“If I look at the community where I live, many youths have fallen to drugs, you will see young people smoking weed, but because of the guidance I get here at Youth Advocates, I just made a I vow that I won’t partake in drug and substance abuse, it destroys my life, so I rather just empower my life.

“I recorded three songs under Youth Advocates, namely, Youth Advocate, which showcases the brand of the organisation as a whole, then there is another one called Zvinodhaka, I sang it after some youths died during the Covid-19 pandemic. Those who died were under the wrong influence, like I remember some would say if they take whiskey, they would not contract covid, but this was wrong. Then I also did a song called Child marriage which really touched on this growing scourge in the country,” added Madondo whose stage name is Firemaster.

Guests from Malawi, Botswana, government ministries, students among others, attended the event which was held at Youth Advocates head office in Chitungwiza.

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Japan donates US$774 000 for cholera

BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA

Manicaland Province has received a timely donation of US$774 000 from Japan for the emergency cholera response.

The donation which was made through UNICEF, will specifically target the most vulnerable communities in the province, which bears one of the highest burdens of the disease.

A statement by UNICEF revealed that the grant will provide a comprehensive range of life-saving support in areas such as access to safe water; provision of critical hygiene materials, healthcare, and nutrition; child protection; as well as other essential social services.

His Excellency Mr Shinichi Yamanaka, Japan’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe said, “I hope that our support will allow the most vulnerable people to recover quickly and rebuild their lives. I also hope it will help prevent the further spread of this disease and future outbreaks”.

Speaking on the same grant, Dr Tajudeen Oyewale, UNICEF Representative in Zimbabwe said, “we are extremely grateful to the Government of Japan for this support.

“This support exemplifies the commitment of the Government of Japan to the people of Zimbabwe to address the urgent needs of the affected communities and build resilience in the face of public health emergencies.”

The statement further read that, “the newly allocated funding will help the Government of Zimbabwe, UNICEF, and their partners to scale-up the multi-sectoral cholera response in affected areas, prioritising improved support and treatment to people infected by cholera; securing access to safe water with a special emphasis on the rehabilitation of sustainable, climate-resilient boreholes to ensure a lasting supply of safe water; and disseminating messages on cholera prevention and treatment through mass media platforms and interpersonal communication channels.”

Zimbabwe has been grappling with the cholera outbreak since February last year, recording 20,000 cases and over 400 deaths. Manicaland and Harare are the hardest hit provinces, as both account for 64 percent of all cholera cases.

And since the start of the outbreak, UNICEF has been working with the Ministry of Health and Child Care and partners to support affected communities, including by: “providing emergency health supplies and medical products to establish more than 50 cholera treatment centres and more than 90 community oral rehydration points in affected areas.

“Providing technical and operational support for the cholera vaccination campaign targeting 2.3 million people in the most affected districts.

“Training more than 2,200 health workers on case management, surveillance, and infection control in treatment facilities.

“Reaching more than 260,000 people with critical water, sanitation, and hygiene supplies.

“And reaching 5 million people with messages on health-and-hygiene measures to prevent cholera and the importance of seeking medical treatment early, particularly for children,” added the statement.

Spare a thought for women who use drugs

BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA

There is need to spare a thought for women who use drugs in Africa as they are disproportionately affected by several issues of society which leaves them more vulnerable, Tania Marumbwa, activist for the Community of People who Use Drugs in Zimbabwe has said.

Marumbwa revealed this during the recently International Conference on AIDS and STIs in Africa (ICASA) at the launch of the Harare Declaration by and for African Women who Use Drugs.

She said the obtaining situation was that African women who use drugs in Sub-Saharan Africa continue to experience inequality, violence, stigma, high exposure to HIV and discrimination from all sections of the society.

“Even where laws that protect them exist, the level of implementation is yet to reach the

desired level to adequately protect women who use drugs.

“It is therefore crucial that all relevant

stakeholders, governments, civil society organisations, and inter-governmental organizations come together in a coordinated fashion to increase the protection of the rights of these women.

“Women who use drugs in Africa have less social, psychological and economic support and are

more likely to have experienced traumatic events, such as sexual and physical assault and abuse

as children and/or adults and to be currently exposed to intimate partner violence.

“The experience of trauma can lead to the development of post-traumatic stress disorder or other mental health problems and can also increase the risk of substance use,” said Marumbwa.

She added that women who use drugs are affected in several facets of life including having difficulties to find jobs, which they need so as to live better lives. Marumbwa further revealed that as a result of finding it difficult to get jobs, economic burdens are heavier for them.

“Vulnerability experienced by women who use drugs pushes them to susceptibility to HIV.

“Women who use drugs are likely to share their injecting paraphernalia with more people than

their male counterparts, trade sex for drugs and have difficulties in negotiating condom use

with sexual partners.

“Generally, women who trade sex are more likely to experience violence and many have limited power to engage in safe sex or safe injecting practices, placing them at an increased risk of infections.

“Women who use drugs face significant barriers to accessing both HIV and harm reduction services,” said Marumbwa.

Marumbwa however said not all hope is lost, as they made a clarion call to African governments and all stakeholders for women who use drugs to be protected.

Some of the recommendations include; “for women who have experienced or continue to experience intimate/ gender-based violence; trauma informed treatment are recommended.

“There is also a need to ensure high level collaboration between the health system, community systems and justice sector to address all sorts of violence against women who use drugs.

“Sexual Reproductive Health Rights services for women who use drugs should address their wide spectrum of needs. They include cervical cancer and sexually transmitted illness (STI) screening and treatment and contraception to avoid unwanted

pregnancy.

“Services for pregnant women should include gynecological/obstetric care and

medically assisted treatment (MAT) treatment in case of opioid dependence.

“Support for parenting, including skills development/mentoring is needed and address childcare provision concerns.

“Support women who use drugs in accessing harm reduction services in a manner that is stigma free and a way in which services are available and accessible to them.

“Efforts are required to counter stigma and discrimination faced by these women. A range of interventions should be made available including MAT, NSP, counseling among others.

“The growing number of incarcerated women who use drugs face unique challenges that prisons and jails aren’t equipped to address.

“This means that “incarceration should not ever be an option for women who use drugs unless for other reasons”.

“Incarceration also has devastating effects on the families of incarcerated women who use drugs as it leaves lasting negative impacts on their children, and causes financial instability for their families as in most cases they are the sole breadwinners,” she added.

Marumbwa added that there was need to deliver services to women who use drugs in environments that are gender responsive, welcoming, non-judgemental, supporting and physically and emotionally safe.

“Spaces that are inclusive and safe for trans women and sex workers are needed. Services should be holistic and comprehensive, promoting healthy connections to children, family members, significant others and the community.

“Ensure the participation of women who use drugs in policy and programme development.

“This will promote gender-responsive policies and programmes by introducing and expanding

services and policies that meet the needs of women who use drugs.

“The leadership of women who use drugs should be deliberately sought in PWUID led structures and in other structures created to meet the needs of PWUIDs.

“Deliberate attempts should be made to assist in empowering women who use drugs both

socially and economically.

“Women who use drugs led CSOs should be funded to create interventions that will adequately address the needs of women who use drugs.”

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Work towards ending AIDS goes beyond ICASA

**Disability Youth Advocate**
**Takavinya Yolanda Munyengwa**

BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA

The work to end AIDS by 2030 goes beyond international conferences as there is more work to be done which needs total dedication of everyone concerned, Disability Youth Advocate, Takavinya Yolanda Munyengwa has revealed.

Munyengwa was speaking at the recent International Conference on AIDS and STIs in Africa (ICASA) which was held at the Rainbow Towers Hotel in Harare.

The theme for ICASA 2023 was “AIDS IS NOT OVER: Address inequalities, accelerate inclusion and innovation.”

“Let us be reminded that our work extends beyond these conference walls.

“It extends to clinics, health facilities, community spaces and countries across the globe.

“We must engage policymakers, healthcare providers, researchers, and civil society organizations in our pursuit to end AIDS by 2030.

“By uniting our voices and resources, we can drive meaningful change and create an inclusive environment that supports, diversity of young women and girls, people with disabilities, women, key populations and all those affected by this devastating disease.

“As we gather here today, let us renew our commitment to the cause. Let us revolutionize prevention strategies, enhance access to treatment, and eliminate the stigma and discrimination and criminalization associated with HIV/AIDS,” she said.

Munyengwa further revealed that all inequalities had to be addressed because time is running out as she also reiterated that the journey towards ending AIDS by 2030 required working together being resilient.

“Let us address inequalities, knowing that time is of the essence and let us accelerate inclusion and innovation recognizing that our ability to adapt and overcome will redefine our success in the face of future challenges.

“Together, we have the power to transform lives, communities, and nations.

“Let us leave this conference not only inspired but equipped with the tools, knowledge, and renewed determination to create a world free from stigma, discrimination, criminalization because this is how we will END AIDS by 2023.”

She added, “by accelerating progress, we can ensure that the goals we have set are achieved swiftly and effectively.

“We must move forward with a sense of urgency, leaving no one behind, and providing access to life-saving treatments and prevention methods to all those in need.

“Building resilience is equally important as we face a rapidly changing landscape in the field of HIV/AIDS. We must anticipate and adapt to the evolving challenges that arise. Our resilience lies in our ability to learn from past experiences, embrace new technologies, and empower communities affected by HIV/AIDS.

“By building resilience, we can withstand any obstacles that come our way and guarantee the sustainability of our efforts for generations to come.”

Munyengwa further revealed that ICASA 2023 serves as a platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and introspection, hence delegates had to seize the opportunity to share insights, foster partnerships, and strengthen our resolve to fight against HIV/AIDS.

“Together, we can amplify our impact and ensure that progress is not hindered by any barriers, whether they are social, economic, or cultural.

“The theme for this conference resonates deeply with the current situation for PLHIV.

“It highlights the urgent need to not only make progress in combating HIV/AIDS but also emphasizes the importance of addressing inequalities and accelerate the inclusion of people left behind such as key populations, young people and children to close the gap and end AIDS by 2023.

“We find ourselves at a crucial juncture where our collective efforts are the key to shaping a brighter future,” she added.

Multisectoral approach needed to tackle AMR

**Deputy Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Vangelis Haritatos-pic WHO Zimbabwe**

BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA

Antimicrobial Resistance is a complex phenomenon which requires the support of several sectors as it (AMR) is an emerging health threat, Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Dr Anxious Masuka has revealed.

Minister Masuka revealed this on Monday in a speech read on his behalf by his Deputy Vangelis Haritatos, during the official opening of the World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week Campaign for Africa at a local hotel.

He said that AMR is a complex issue hence all hands should be on deck as it demands immediate attention and united action.

“It is a one health issue, encompassing the interconnectedness of human health, environmental health, and agricultural practices.

“We must recognize that AMR affects not only human health but also the health and well-being of our animals and the environment we share.

“To effectively combat AMR, we need a concerted effort from various sectors, with human health, environmental conservation, and agriculture leading the charge.

“We must work together, across disciplines and boundaries, to develop strategies that promote responsible antibiotic use, strengthen infection prevention and control measures, and preserve the effectiveness of these life-saving medications,” said Dr Masuka.

He added; “the fight against AMR requires sustained commitment and collaborative action. It is not a battle that can be fought by a single sector or country alone.

“We must engage stakeholders from the human health sector, veterinary medicine, agriculture, environmental conservation, and beyond.

“By working together, sharing knowledge and resources, and adopting a One Health approach, we can make significant progress in preserving the effectiveness of antibiotics and safeguarding the health of our people, animals, and environment.

“Together with our partners in the health and environmental sectors, we will strive to create a future where antibiotics remain effective tools in treating diseases, both in humans and animals.”

Speaking at the same event, Minister of Health and Child Care, Doctor Douglas Mombeshora said, “we must not forget that the Antimicrobial Resistance response requires a “whole of society approach,” hence all of us are called to play our part in the prevention and control of Antimicrobial Resistance.”

United Nations Resident Coordinator in Zimbabwe, Mr Edward Kallon in his speech which was read by Francesca Erdelmann, revealed there was need for a multisectoral approach so as to take urgent action to address this global health and development threat.

“This year’s theme, “Preventing Antimicrobial Resistance Together,” underscores the need for urgent multisectoral action under the One Health Approach to safeguard the effectiveness of antimicrobial medicines,” added Dr Kallon.

Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations said they are committed to continue working closely with multi-sectoral partners under a One Health approach to deal with AMR.

“It is our core belief that by working together and each playing our part, we can slow AMR, and build moreefficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable agrifood systems for better production, better nutrition, “a better environment, and a better life, leaving no one behind.”

And WHO African Region Assistant Regional Director Dr Lindiwe Makubalo said the “responsibility demands that we take concrete actions and demonstrate unwavering commitment.

“We need to strengthen our One Health collaborative approach to prevent the rise and spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) as much as possible. While the task is enormous, we can overcome it, together.”

Zimbabwe with support from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), in partnership with African Union agencies, Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and African Union Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources (AU IBAR) is hosting the continental celebration of the World Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Awareness Week which started on the 18th to the 24th November.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites change over time and no longer respond to medicines making infections harder to treat and increasing the risk of disease spread, severe illness and death.

Several initiatives have been put in place in order to tackle AMR as millions continue to die; with statistics showing that in 2019 alone, 4,9 million people died globally as a result of drug-resistant infections.

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Minister Masuka to open World AMR Awareness Week commemorations

**Minister Anxious Masuka-pic by Tateguru TV**

BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA

Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Dr Anxious Masuka will officially launch the World Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Awareness Week (WAAW) which will be held in Harare from today till Friday, at the Harare International Conference Centre.
The week-long event will see the Government getting support from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), in partnership with African Union agencies, Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and African Union Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources (AU IBAR) to host the continental celebrations.
The commemorations will run under the theme, “Preventing Antimicrobial Resistance Together” which emphasizes the importance of collective action to address the global health challenge of antimicrobial resistance.
During the opening ceremony, the government will also hold a signing ceremony for the Zimbabwe Antimicrobial Resistance National Action Plan (NAP).
“The WAAW week is an annual global event that aims to enhance awareness and understanding of the challenges posed by antimicrobial resistance while promoting best practices in antimicrobial stewardship across public health, animal health, and the environment.
“The quadripartite organizations and the Africa Union Task Force on AMR are working together in a One Health approach to organize this year’s event and translate the theme into action.
“These celebrations will involve the coordination of campaigns at both national and continental levels by engaging diverse stakeholders from around the world.
“The continental event is scheduled to commence on 18 November 2023 and will bring together a wide array of important participants and stakeholder groups.
“These will include high-level policy and decision-makers of Member States, Regional Economic Communities, the One Health Community, development partners, private sector partners, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), civil society organizations, academia, research institutions, research centres and the general public,” read a press release from the organizers.
Other activities during the WAAW will include: media briefings and press conferences, a ‘world café’ debate on AMR and correct use, an engagement with high school students on AMR awareness including a mini football tournament, a high-level panel discussion on AMR’s environmental dimensions, policy dialogues on accelerating progress in African countries in the implementation of AMR National Action Plans, AMR One Health multisectoral collaboration and governance, AMR in aquaculture, and laboratory and field visits, including visiting the BOLAV Vaccine Production Unit, a BOLVAC Theileriosis Vaccination hotspot and a Farmer Field School farm.
“WAAW serves as a platform for collaboration amongst stakeholders in the fight against the emergence and spread of AMR.
“It provides a valuable opportunity to enhance awareness and advocate for AMR risk mitigation efforts across sectors. This event also demonstrates continental unity and positions Africa as the leading region in combatting AMR while reinforcing critical messages to generate more collective policy guidance and support for the advancement of programmes aimed at reducing AMR risks,” added the press release.

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