104 inmates living with HIV in Matabeleland North prisons

Michelle Musandinyoze

A total of 104 inmates across eight correctional facilities in Matabeleland North are living with HIV, with six of the individuals aged below 25 and 98 aged above 25.

This was revealed by Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) Assistant Principal Correctional Officer,

Mr Godknows Ncube, during the ongoing National Aids Council (NAC) Bulawayo Provincial Stakeholder meeting in Bulawayo.

The eight facilities are Ntabazinduna Satellite Prison, Anju Farm Prison, Tsholotsho Prison, Lupane Prison, Hwange Prison, Victoria Falls Prison and Binga Prison.

During the past quarter, 144 inmates were also tested for HIV, with one inmate testing positive.

However, Mr Ncube highlighted that there has been a disparity in the availability of female condoms, noting that correctional facilities have not received any.

“We received a total of 900 male condoms but would also want yo receive female protectors as well, to address the gender bias,” he said.

“There is need to ensure access to antiretroviral therapy,” he said.

“We also want to integrate HIV services with other health programmes and increase testing and awareness amongst inmates,” he said.

Mr Ncube also emphasised the importance of strengthening HIV monitoring and reporting in prisons, noting that there is a high number of defaulters, especially among younger inmates.

“You realise that those who would have tested positive for HIV before coming to prison default from taking their medication,” he said.

He said this challenge can be addressed by ensuring that staff are properly equipped and trained, while also noting that some facilities are not yet accredited to provide ART services.