happiness Chikwanha
Walter Nyamukondiwa in RAFFINGORA
Rafingora residents have called on Government to increase tax on alcohol to curb alcoholism and the attendant health challenges.
The Parliamentary Thematic Committee on HIV and Aids heard during a public consultation here today that alcoholism, drug and substance abuse are taking a toll on HIV intervention programmes.
It was highlighted that alcohol and drugs have become easily available, even to underage children.
As a result, strict adherence to treatment is being compromised while some of those on ART are defaulting on medication.
“We see our children getting drunk to the extent that they need to be carried home. Some of them are HIV positive and you wonder if they will be able to take their medicine in that state,” said Mrs Sinisai Murera.
“Something has to be done about the availability of alcohol, especially the spirits which are as low as $1 for three 250ml bottles. Children are buying these and wasting away.”
Villagers called on the further decentralisation of ART distribution to reduce the distance that people have to travel to access it.
Others called on Government to increase the allocation to cover at least six months.
“We would want the allocation to be increased to cover even up to a year so that we reduce the strain on people who need to travel long distances to get medication,” said a resident.
“We have people who travel up to 20km to reach Raffingora Hospital to collect their medicine and also get the necessary tests. This means some fail to collect them.”
Chairperson of the Thematic Committee of HIV and Aids, Senator Angeline Tongogara said the public consultations are aimed at improving the delivery of health services and the impact on communities.
“We want to see the impact and challenges being faced in providing services to people in rural areas,” said Senator Tongogara.
“We will then compile the findings and make recommendations which will be considered by Senate.”
Members of the committee, representatives from the Ministry of Health and Child Care, Zvimba North Legislator Marian Chombo, National Aids Council, Chiefs and the Raffingora community attended the meeting.
Online Reporter