Organisations focused on HIV and Aids care and support are advocating for a significant shift to transformative health financing in response to emerging challenges.
In their statements for World Aids Day, the Organisation of Public Health Interventions and Development (OPHID) and the Zimbabwe National Network of People Living with HIV (ZNNP+) commended the progress made in Zimbabwe's fight against HIV and Aids.
“This year’s theme encourages all stakeholders to evolve beyond resilience and embrace transformation, aiming to create systems that are equitable, inclusive and sustainable,” said Tinashe Chinyanga, the executive director for OPHID.
Chinyanga emphasised the continued need for advocacy and initiatives that underscore health as a fundamental human right.
“Over the past few decades, Zimbabwe has made significant progress in reducing new HIV infections, improving access to treatment, and enhancing the quality of life for those living with HIV/Aids.
“Nevertheless, recent years have presented unprecedented challenges, including pandemics, economic upheaval, and climate-related crises, all of which have tested the resilience of our health systems and communities,” he noted.
To address these disruptions, he urged for innovation, adaptability, and sustained partnerships.
“Guided by our vision of ‘Healthy communities free from the burden of HIV,” we remain committed to supporting the Ministry of Health and Child Care in fortifying HIV prevention, care and treatment services throughout Zimbabwe,” Chinyanga added.
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“By harnessing integrated programs and innovative digital health solutions, we are redefining the Aids response.
“Our use of artificial intelligence and data-driven insights aims to enhance health outcomes, improve efficiency, and ensure that no one is overlooked.”
Marshal Makorovodo, chairperson of ZNNP+, reflected on this year’s global theme Overcoming disruptions, transforming the HIV and AIDS response, calling on stakeholders to confront the barriers that threaten decades of progress and to reaffirm the commitment to leave no one behind.
“For many, this day serves as a reminder of unmet needs, disrupted services, and the ongoing struggle for acceptance,” he pointed out.
“Funding disruptions have tangible consequences; they lead to missed appointments, diminished support at clinics, weakened community services, and increased vulnerability for marginalised groups.
“As ZNNP+, the national voice for people living with HIV, we acknowledge the gravity of this moment, but we refuse to be defeated.”
Makorovodo reiterated their commitment to advocacy for sustainable, long-term investment in HIV and Aids services.
“We implore our government and partners to prioritise the strengthening of health systems so that access to medication and support remains intact, even amid economic uncertainties,” he said.
Zimbabwe’s response to HIV and Aids faced a setback when the United States, under President Donald Trump, early this year imposed an aid freeze that impacted health initiatives.
