In a recent address at an HIV/AIDS sensitization workshop for Parliamentarians, Speaker of Parliament Jacob Mudenda praised the efforts of community and village health workers, highlighting their pivotal role in Zimbabwe’s significant achievement of a 70% reduction in new HIV infections nationwide. This milestone, as reported by the health ministry, underscores the crucial contributions of these frontline workers in the ongoing battle against the epidemic.
Mudenda commended these health workers for their comprehensive approach to combating HIV. They have played an essential role in demystifying the virus, promoting voluntary counseling and testing (VCT), supporting adherence to treatment, and acting as a vital link between the healthcare system and local communities. Their work has been especially critical in reaching some of the most vulnerable populations, ensuring that those at risk are not left behind.
The Speaker acknowledged the broader context in which these achievements have occurred. He underscored the importance of a robust primary healthcare system, which includes a network of clinics and health centers across the country. This network, supported by the dedicated efforts of community and village health workers, has been instrumental in expanding access to HIV testing, treatment, and care. Mudenda highlighted that these workers are often the primary source of healthcare for many Zimbabweans, particularly in rural areas where medical facilities are scarce.
Despite these successes, Mudenda expressed concern over a significant challenge facing the healthcare sector: the high attrition rates among skilled professionals. He noted that Zimbabwe is experiencing a critical shortage of village health workers, with a current deficit of 16,000 against a national target of 30,000. Additionally, there is a broader shortage of health professionals, with an estimated need for 57,573 additional specialists and practitioners, as outlined in the Zimbabwe Health Workforce Investment Compact for 2024-2026.
Mudenda attributed this shortage to a “brain drain,” where nurses, doctors, and community health workers are leaving Zimbabwe in search of better opportunities abroad. This trend poses a serious threat to the sustainability of HIV programs and other essential healthcare services.
In response to these challenges, Mudenda acknowledged the efforts of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration to implement measures aimed at retaining skilled health workers. He celebrated those who continue to serve despite the difficult conditions, emphasizing their dedication and patriotism.
The Speaker also highlighted Zimbabwe’s progress in meeting the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) 95-95-95 targets, which aim to ensure that 95% of people living with HIV are aware of their status, 95% of those diagnosed are on antiretroviral therapy (ART), and 95% of those on ART achieve viral suppression. Zimbabwe has exceeded these targets ahead of the global goal year of 2030, reflecting the country’s significant strides in combating the HIV epidemic.
With approximately 1.3 million people living with HIV in Zimbabwe, Mudenda’s remarks underscore the nation’s achievements and ongoing challenges in addressing one of the most pressing health issues.
