Zimbabwe assures uninterrupted HIV treatment, warn...

Zimbabwe assures uninterrupted HIV treatment, warns unethical health Workers

Minister of Health Dr Douglas Mombeshora

Rutendo Mazhindu

Zim Now Reporter

The Zimbabwean government has reaffirmed its commitment to providing uninterrupted HIV treatment while issuing a strong warning against unethical conduct within the healthcare sector. Minister of Health and Child Care, Dr. Douglas Mombeshora, addressed the nation at a press conference to dispel rumours of antiretroviral (ARV) shortages and address concerns about misconduct by healthcare professionals.

Dr. Mombeshora assured the public that ARV stocks are stable and sufficient across all treatment centres, dismissing any circulating rumours of shortages. He clarified that while older ARV formulations have a buffer stock of up to four months, new shipments of improved triple Fixed Dose Combination regimens are expected in July, marking a step towards modernizing treatment.

However, the Minister also addressed growing concerns regarding misconduct within the health sector. He condemned such actions as a "gross abuse of authority" and a "betrayal of public trust," stating that investigations are underway and disciplinary measures will be taken against any implicated healthcare workers.

He reiterated that ARVs are provided free of charge at all public health facilities and urged patients asked to pay for HIV services to report such incidents immediately, underscoring the Ministry's zero-tolerance policy on corruption and exploitation.

Dr. Mombeshora reaffirmed Zimbabwe's dedication to maintaining progress in the fight against HIV, particularly in achieving the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets. He emphasized that these advancements would be protected and furthered.