adminFungai Lupande Mash Central Bureau
There has been an increase in sexually transmitted diseases among youths in Mashonaland Central amid reports of a decline in the distribution of condoms in the province, an adolescence reproductive health forum was informed on Wednesday. Efforts to get statistics of the increase in STI infections were fruitless as the provincial medical doctor, Dr Clemence Tshuma, referred all questions to the National Aids Council (NAC).
NAC district Aids coordinator Mr Agrippa Karuru advised the forum that there was an operational research being undertaken by the Ministry of Health and Child Care, NAC and the Zimbabwe AIDS Prevention and Support Organisation (ZAPSO) to asceratin the causes.
In an interview, NAC provincial coordinator Mr David Nyamurera said the increase in STI infections could be attributed to a number of factors including an increase in artisanal miners and commuter omnibus crews.
“There might be an increase in prostitution among these groups of people.
“The increase in STIs is an indication that our awareness campaigns are yielding results and people are coming out in the open and seeking treatment,” he said.
“On the other hand, women have a health-seeking behaviour and the increase might mean that there is an actual increase in STI infections.”
Speaking at the forum held in Bindura, Zimbabwe National Family Planning Council (ZNFPC) provincial marketing and communications officer Mr Percival Kushure said the shortage in condoms was caused by a new distribution system which is based on the consumption rate.
Mr Kushure said the province has identified 75 health facilities in five districts to implement a programme which ensures that health facilities are youth friendly.
“Assessment of these health facilities is underway and Zimbabwe is the only country that has started this initiative,” said Mr Kushure.
“We want to do way with youth friendly corners and move towards an environment whereby all health facilities’ employees starting at the gate are youth friendly.
“In 2016, the Ministry of Health and Child Care developed guidelines basing on the World Health Organisations nine guidelines on quality service provision to youths.”
National ASRH programme officer Mrs Marian Machimbirike said there was need to increase knowledge among youth on safe sex practices and access to sexual reproductive health services.
“Mobilise and sensitise young people to go and access sexual reproductive health services. Create an enabling environment so that people can access these services without stigma,” she said before creating thematic groups to tackle health challenges in the province.
Online Reporter