Zimbabwe has recorded a rise in AIDS-related deaths in the first half of 2025, Health and Child Care Minister Douglas Mombeshora has said.
Speaking during a media workshop on HIV reporting and stigma reduction held in Harare on Friday, Mombeshora said that between January and June this year, the country registered 5,932 AIDS-related deaths.
This marks an increase from 5,712 deaths recorded during the same period in 2024. Said Mombeshora:
An increase of 220 deaths is a reminder that our work is not done.
Mombeshora warned that despite Zimbabwe’s progress in the fight against HIV/AIDS, especially in moving towards the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets, the country’s gains remain fragile.
He said the progress is under threat from persistent challenges such as limited funding, widespread stigma, and discrimination, which continue to hinder access to testing, treatment, and care services. He said:
As a nation, we must confront these realities with honesty and resolve. Addressing stigma and discrimination is not only a moral obligation, but also a public health imperative.
Zimbabwe is now working towards fully transitioning to domestic financing for its HIV and AIDS response, as external donor support continues to decline, Mombeshora has said.
He said operational adjustments are being implemented to maintain service delivery, while underscoring the urgent need for innovation, strengthened local partnerships, and a resilient, self-sustaining response to the epidemic.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) targets the body’s immune system, specifically white blood cells, compromising the body’s ability to fight infections and disease.
If left untreated, HIV can progress to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), the most advanced stage of the infection.
HIV is transmitted through infected body fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk, and can also be passed from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding.
It is not transmitted through casual contact like hugging, kissing, or sharing food.
The disease can be prevented and effectively managed through antiretroviral therapy (ART), which helps suppress the virus and improve the quality of life for those living with HIV.
More: NewZimbabwe.com
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