The National Aids Council (NAC) says it has seen a worrying rise in new HIV infections among teenagers and young adults aged 14 to 24 — the group often referred to as Ama2000.
According to NAC, factors such as lack of parental guidance, sexual abuse within families, and risky behaviour among some young people are contributing to the increase in cases across the country.
Speaking to journalists during a media tour of selected districts in Manicaland earlier this week, NAC provincial manager Artwell Shiridzinomwa said:
“Generally, we have a reduction in new HIV infections, but we are still experiencing some worrisome new infections, especially if you look at young people, the 15 to 24 age group. This is at a national scale, but also reflective of the trend here in Manicaland.
“Yes, other age groups are also recording their own figures in terms of new HIV infections, but it has generally been higher in that age group. This is where we are getting most of the new infections.
“In order to curb these new infections in that age group, we need to conscientise our young people that your health is your responsibility. This is the reason we are having these campaigns and media tours.”
During a media tour on Wednesday at Checheche Primary School, Yolanda Gwizo, representing the NAC District AIDS Coordinator for Chipinge, one of the worst-affected areas, told journalists that:
“We have different reasons that have contributed to the increase in teenage pregnancies and early marriages.
“Some of the reasons for teenage pregnancies in this area include neglect by parents. Some parents go to Mozambique and South Africa in search of greener pastures, leaving their children alone.
“In some cases, it is due to relatives who abuse young girls in the family set-up, and in other cases, it is also due to teenage delinquency.”
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