Zimbabwe reaches pivotal 95-95-95 HIV/AIDS goals

ZIMBABWE—Zimbabwe has reached a significant milestone in its fight against HIV/AIDS by achieving the ambitious 95-95-95 targets established by the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV and AIDS (UNAIDS).

These targets aim to ensure that 95% of people living with HIV know their status, 95% of those diagnosed receive sustained antiretroviral therapy (ART), and 95% of those on treatment achieve viral suppression.

This achievement places Zimbabwe among a select group of African countries, including Botswana, Eswatini, Rwanda, and Tanzania, which have met these crucial goals.

The success of Zimbabwe’s HIV/AIDS response can be attributed to a collaborative and multisectoral approach involving the government, international organizations, civil society, and faith communities.

Despite facing economic challenges, the country has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to ending the AIDS epidemic by 2030. This dedication has led to significant strides in HIV prevention, treatment, and care.

One key factor contributing to Zimbabwe’s success has been the expansion of healthcare facilities.

With over 10,000 primary health service providers nationwide, urban and rural communities have been effectively reached.

Village health workers have played a crucial role in raising awareness about HIV, while the government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have implemented comprehensive education campaigns on prevention and treatment.

The faith community has also been instrumental in supporting people living with HIV and challenging the associated stigma.

Organizations like INERELA+, founded by Anglican pastor Gideon Byamugisha, have addressed discrimination within religious communities.

By encouraging faith leaders to share their HIV-positive status publicly, these organizations have helped reduce stigma and encouraged others to seek treatment and support.

Zimbabwe’s progress is particularly noteworthy given its limited resources. The country has demonstrated that substantial advancements in tackling the HIV/AIDS epidemic are possible even in challenging economic circumstances.

The Global Fund has played a significant role in this progress, investing over US$2.3 billion since 2003 and recently approving a new three-year HIV grant of approximately US$437 million for 2024-2026.

However, challenges remain. In 2022, approximately 1.3 million people in Zimbabwe were living with HIV, with 94% being adults and three out of five being women.

Despite the progress made, new infections and AIDS-related deaths continue to occur. In 2023, over 15,000 new HIV infections and more than 17,000 AIDS deaths were recorded.

Looking ahead, Zimbabwe must maintain its momentum to achieve the ultimate goal of ending AIDS by 2030.

This will require continued vigilance, sustained funding, and ongoing efforts to address sociodemographic constraints and geographic disparities in HIV care.

Factors such as age, gender, employment status, and religious affiliation have been identified as key determinants affecting progress towards the 95-95-95 targets.

Zimbabwe’s success story serves as an inspiring example for other countries facing similar challenges.

It demonstrates that with strong political will, innovative community-level interventions, and a focus on addressing the unique needs of vulnerable populations, significant progress in the fight against HIV/AIDS is achievable.

As the country moves forward, it will be crucial to sustain these gains, accelerate responses where needed, and continue working towards a future free from the threat of AIDS.

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