by ZODWA MLOTSHWA
MZINGWANE – MATABELELAND South health authorities have renewed calls for province-specific HIV and STI interventions, citing uniquely high transmission dynamics compared with other regions in Zimbabwe.
The appeal was made as the province held this year’s World AIDS Day commemorations, scheduled for Mzingwane High School in Umzingwane District.
According to the latest national HIV estimates, Matabeleland South records the highest HIV prevalence in the country at 15 percent, well above the national average of 9.4 percent.
Although the incidence rate stands at 0.2 percent and ART coverage is commendably high at 98.4 percent, officials warn that new infections remain concerning.
National AIDS Council (NAC) Provincial Manager Mr. Mgcini Sibanda attributed the elevated prevalence to the province’s strategic location.
Border towns such as Beitbridge and Plumtree experience high mobility, spousal separation, child-headed households, increased teenage pregnancies and a rise in sex work—factors intensifying HIV vulnerability.
The province’s small population of about 760,000 includes an estimated 93,000 people living with HIV.
“All seven districts record prevalence rates above the national average. Bulilima stands at 17.6 percent, Mangwe at 16.8 percent, while Umzingwane is the lowest,” said Mr. Sibanda.
He stressed the need for tailored strategies that address local social drivers, access barriers and cultural realities.
New infections disproportionately affect adolescent girls and young women (AGYW).
The 15–39 age group is the most affected, with incidence peaking among females aged 15–19, followed by those 20–24.
Men experience a slight rise in new infections between 25–34, while rates stabilise after age 30. In children aged 0–4, new infections remain very low.
Mr. Sibanda highlighted gender and socio-economic vulnerabilities as major contributors.
Early marriages—most common in Beitbridge and Insiza—cultural norms limiting women’s negotiating power, and migration for survival into South Africa and Botswana continue to expose young women to exploitation and HIV risk.
He said the Ministry of Health, through NAC and partner ministries, is intensifying a multi-sectoral HIV response, expanding economic empowerment initiatives, and scaling gender-transformative education.
The province is also implementing the “Not in My Village” campaign to curb harmful practices and strengthen community protection systems.
Despite progress, stigma and discrimination remain obstacles, and authorities emphasise that continued community engagement is essential.
World AIDS Day events are held annually, providing a platform to reinforce prevention and support programmes.
