Staff Reporter
Health stakeholders in Zimbabwe are closely monitoring individuals aging with HIV, aiming to better understand their unique health needs and provide appropriate interventions.
Speaking in various statements, stakeholders, including the Ministry of Health and Child Care, NGOs, and healthcare professionals, are prioritizing this group to tailor healthcare interventions and social services that cater for their specific needs. This initiative aligns with global efforts to ensure that people living with HIV can age with dignity and have access to quality healthcare.
Dr. Portia Manangazira, Director of Epidemiology and Disease Control in the Ministry of Health, emphasized the importance of the initiative.
“We are witnessing a significant number of people living with HIV into their later years. It is critical to address their changing health needs, which may include managing chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and cancer, in addition to HIV,” she said.
The Zimbabwe National Network of People Living with HIV (ZNNP+) is actively involved in monitoring and advocating for this population’s needs. Speaking on behalf of ZNNP+, Executive Director Mary Kasinga highlighted the importance of social support systems.
“Aging with HIV requires not only medical interventions but also comprehensive social services. Many elderly people with HIV face stigma and isolation, which affects their mental health. It is crucial to address these issues holistically,” Kasinga said.
Another key stakeholder, the United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), is also collaborating with local partners to provide technical support.
“Zimbabwe’s focus on aging populations with HIV is in line with global trends. We are working with the government to ensure that their health systems are equipped to handle both HIV and age-related health complications,” said Owen Mugurungi, UNAIDS country director.
Meanwhile, Government has ramped up its support through various initiatives under the Ministry of Health and Child Care. This includes the integration of HIV services into primary healthcare, which provides aging individuals with comprehensive health assessments. Additionally, the government is working on expanding ART coverage and strengthening healthcare infrastructure in line with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030, which seeks to improve healthcare access and quality for all.
