Online Reporter
Africa Moyo in CHINHOYI
Zimbabwe has recorded significant milestones in the fight against HIV, but more efforts are required to end the HIV/AIDS epidemic as a public health threat by 2030, National AIDS Council (NAC) acting chief executive officer Mr Raymond Yekeye has said.
Experts define a public health threat as a situation that poses a significant risk to the health and well-being of a population, potentially leading to widespread illness, injury, or death.
Examples include disease outbreaks and natural disasters, climate change, and social determinants of health like poverty, inequality, and lack of access to healthcare.
In his opening remarks at an Editors Workshop that opened here today, Mr Yekeye said despite significant progress made in reducing new infections and expanding treatment, HIV remains a public health priority that continues to demand concerted efforts to tackle it.
“We cannot afford complacency. Your voices (media) can help keep HIV high on the national agenda, advocate for resource mobilisation, and hold stakeholders accountable.
“Your presence here underscores the vital role played by editors in shaping public understanding, influencing behaviour, and ultimately contributing to our national response to HIV and AIDS,” he said.
Mr Yekeye said the workshop for editors has been organised to strengthen collaboration in the national HIV response through accurate, responsible, and impactful media reporting.
“As gatekeepers of information, your commitment to accurate, responsible, and impactful reporting is indispensable.
“This workshop has been designed to provide you with the latest information on the HIV and AIDS landscape in Zimbabwe, including the impact of the recent funding cuts by the United States government.
“In addition to the usual updates, we have included topical issues such as microbial resistance, use of artificial intelligence in cervical cancer screening, advanced HIV diseases, and HIV funding, among others, for your benefit,” he said.
The two-day workshop comes a few days after journalists toured Mashonaland East Province as part of NAC’s ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration with the media, which is critical in promoting awareness.
The global community aims to end the HIV/AIDS epidemic as a public health threat by 2030, as outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals.
This requires strong political leadership, data-driven approaches, and addressing inequalities, alongside ensuring sufficient and sustainable funding.
