Online Reporter
Rumbidzayi Zinyuke in Accra, Ghana
ZIMBABWE’S leadership in the fight against HIV and Aids received continental acclaim today as the country scooped two prestigious awards at the ongoing International Conference on Aids and STIs in Africa (Icasa 2025) in Accra, Ghana.
Health and Child Care Minister Dr Douglas Mombeshora was honoured for his outstanding achievements, dedication, and commitment to strengthening Zimbabwe’s HIV response. The award also recognised Zimbabwe’s successful hosting of the last Icasa conference in 2023, which drew thousands of delegates from across Africa and beyond.
Former Health Minister Dr David Parirenyatwa, who is also the current President of the Society for Aids in Africa (SAA) and Icasa 2025, was similarly recognised for more than 20 years of service to SAA and Icasa. His long-standing stewardship has been central to advancing the conference’s mandate and elevating Africa’s voice in global HIV discourse.
Speaking after the awards ceremony, Dr Mombeshora said the honour belonged to the people of Zimbabwe and reflected the country’s collective effort.
“It is pleasing that the work we are doing in Zimbabwe is being recognised and appreciated. This couldn’t have been possible without the support at the highest level from His Excellency, President Mnangagwa.
This is not just an acknowledgement for one person but for Zimbabwe as a whole because a lot of people came in to support us and make it a success. We want to say thank you to Zimbabwe for coming together and successfully hosting Icasa,” he said.
The recognition has reinforced Zimbabwe’s status as one of the region’s leaders in HIV response, health system strengthening and sustained political commitment to ending Aids as a public health threat by 2030.
