Online Reporter
Theseus Shambare
Herald Correspondent
CLINICS in Epworth, in collaboration with local organisation Springs of Life Zimbabwe (SLZ), are rolling out a community-centred HIV outreach programme targeting sex workers and other key populations as Zimbabwe joins the world in commemorating World AIDS Day today.
Overspill Clinic, Epworth Methodist Mission Clinic and Epworth Polyclinic are taking part in the initiative, which seeks to close the service-access gap by bringing health care directly to communities that often face stigma or structural barriers within formal health settings.
Running under the global theme “Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response,” the outreach is currently underway at Chiremba Shops, Overspill paBooster area—an informal hotspot long associated with sex work—and Domboramwari Shops, where many residents and key populations traditionally shy away from clinics due to judgment, fear or limited time.
SLZ advocacy officer Ms Mitchell Zengeya said the initiative reflects a bold shift toward inclusive, community-driven HIV programming.
“World AIDS Day reminds us that to end HIV, we must serve everyone — especially those pushed to the margins,” she said.
“By taking services to paBooster, Chiremba and Domboramwari, we are breaking barriers and restoring dignity.
“Sex workers and other key populations deserve safe, stigma-free access to care. We are aiming to roll out this initiative to other provinces as far as Bulawayo.”
Ms Zengeya said partnerships between civic groups and public health institutions are crucial in responding to emerging challenges.
“Our collaboration with local clinics is proof that when we unite, we can transform the AIDS response. Mobile outreach helps us overcome disruptions in care and ensures no one is left behind,” she said.
Epworth Polyclinic community champion Beauty Magora, who works closely with sex workers and vulnerable youth, said trust grows when services meet people where they are.
“Some sex workers fear going to clinics because past stigma still hurts. But here, they feel respected. They can test, get condoms and talk freely without judgement. This is how communities heal,” she said.
A sex worker who accessed services at Overspill’s mobile point said the outreach allowed her to prioritise her health for the first time in months.
“I work nights and sleep during clinic hours, so I rarely get to test,” she said.
“When they came here, it felt safe and convenient. The nurses were kind, and I got the information I needed.”
Peer educator Nyasha Sayi said the programme was reshaping HIV literacy among vulnerable groups.
“We walk with our peers to these services, explain their prevention options and support them without stigma,” he said.
“Today alone, many who had avoided clinics for years finally got tested. That is transformation.”
The day’s activities will conclude with a candlelighting ceremony in honour of lives lost to AIDS and in solidarity with people living with HIV in Epworth and beyond.
Peter Tanyanyiwa