Online Reporter
Health Reporter
Government is intensifying domestic resource mobilisation efforts to sustain HIV and Aids prevention programmes in the wake of reduced foreign funding, Health and Child Care Minister Dr Douglas Mombeshora has said.
Speaking at the National Aids Council (NAC) 2024 Media Awards ceremony in Harare today, in a speech read on his behalf by NAC board chairperson, Mrs Nester Mukwewa, Dr Mombeshora said the recent financial aid cuts by the
United States government exposed the vulnerability of the national HIV response, which had relied heavily on external support for years.
“The recent cuts in financial aid from the US government have exposed the vulnerability of our response, having depended on that aid for years.
This calls for unity of purpose in strengthening domestic financing to expand the feasibility, which Dr Mombeshora commended the media for its continued role in highlighting HIV and Aids issues and raising public awareness.
“Your role in this is immense — to galvanise national attention towards resource mobilisation. The media also plays a role in addressing the anxiety experienced by people living with HIV,” he said.
He urged the media to continue working closely with Government in promoting early testing, prevention strategies among young people, fighting stigma and discrimination, and enhancing treatment coverage, especially among children.
“Let us continue to work together with renewed vigour and determination to create a department where HIV is no longer a threat to public health, where every individual lives with dignity,” said Dr Mombeshora.
The NAC Media Awards are held annually to recognise and honour journalists and media practitioners who demonstrate excellence in reporting on HIV and Aids.
