Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya
Beitbridge Bureau
BULILIMA district in Matabeleland South province has recorded a significant drop in new HIV infections over the past year, thanks to a series of interventions by the National AIDS Council (NAC) and its partners.
According to Bulilima district AIDS coordinator Mr Ronald Hanyane, the district’s HIV incidence rate declined from 21 percent in 2023 to 17,6 percent in 2024, with 11 376 people currently living with HIV.
Speaking during a media tour of NAC projects in Mangwe and Bulilima, Mr Hanyane credited the progress on evidence-based behavioural, biomedical and structural prevention programmes such as Community ART Refill Groups, the Sister-to-Sister programme, Male Clinics and the Not in My Village campaign.
He noted that infections remain high among youths aged 15–19, citing intergenerational relationships, multiple partners, inconsistent condom use and low risk perception as key drivers.
NAC provincial manager Mr Mgcini Sibanda emphasised the vital role of the media and community leaders in sustaining progress and strengthening HIV/AIDS awareness across the province.
