Evidence Chipadza
As Zimbabwe continues its fight against the HIV and AIDS epidemic, health professionals and community leaders are raising concerns about a hidden but dangerous driver of new infections: drug and substance abuse.
At a recent Media Sensitisation Workshop held at the Redcliff Hotel in Kwekwe, key stakeholders from the health sector, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), and various media organisations convened to discuss the alarming link between substance abuse and the growing HIV infection rate, particularly among the youth and marginalized populations.
Organised by the National AIDS Council (NAC), the workshop aimed to equip media practitioners with up-to-date information on the HIV and AIDS situation in Zimbabwe, while also outlining the country’s strategic approach to responsible and impactful reporting.
NAC Midlands Provincial Manager Mambewu Shumba emphasized that drug abuse is not just a health concern—it’s a gateway to high-risk behaviors.
“Sharing needles, impaired judgment, and engaging in unprotected sex while under the influence are major contributors to the spread of HIV,” said Shumba.
Patrick Karindakutova, a representative from the CID Drugs and Substance Abuse Unit, noted a disturbing rise in drug-related arrests and hospital cases involving substances like crystal meth (“mutoriro”), cough syrup, and marijuana.
“Many young drug users are unaware of the elevated risk they face—not only of contracting HIV but of spreading it unknowingly,” said Karindakutova.
He also urged the media to take an active role in public education and stigma reduction:
“We need bold and honest journalism that draws clear links between substance abuse and HIV transmission.”
The workshop also stressed the importance of integrated intervention strategies that address addiction, mental health, and HIV prevention concurrently.
Brian Musayerenge, HIV Focal Person for the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC) Midlands Province, revealed that an estimated 1.3 million Zimbabweans aged 15 to 49 are living with HIV.
“New infections among adolescents are particularly worrying—with 280 females and 38 males newly infected in 2023. Zvishavane and Kwekwe recorded the highest numbers,” said Musayerenge.
As Zimbabwe works toward achieving its 2030 goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat, addressing drug and substance abuse has become a critical priority.
“We cannot end HIV without tackling drug addiction head-on,” Musayerenge concluded.
“The two issues are deeply interconnected, and our national response must reflect that reality.”
Meanwhile, Zimbabwe continues to make commendable progress toward the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets:
95% of people living with HIV know their status,
95% of those diagnosed are on treatment, and 95% of those on treatment have achieved viral suppression.
