By Admore Mbonda in Chipinge
The National AIDS Council (NAC) has garnered praise for its comprehensive approach to tackling HIV in Zimbabwe within refugee communities.
This recognition came during a recent media briefing led by Mr Johanne Mhlanga, the Administrator of the Tongogara Refugee Settlement, who highlighted the council’s effective programs aimed at enhancing health awareness among young people.
Mr Mhlanga emphasized the positive outcomes of NAC‘s initiatives, notably the Sister-to-Sister and Brother-to-Brother programs, which have become instrumental in educating young women and men about HIV.
“These interventions have encouraged young women and girls to get tested for HIV, understand their status, and adopt responsible health practices,” he noted.
The Sister-to-Sister program focuses on empowering young women, fostering a supportive environment where they can discuss HIV-related issues openly. Meanwhile, the Brother-to-Brother initiative targets young men and boys aged 15 to 24, educating them on the importance of seeking health services and addressing the detrimental effects of drug and substance abuse.
“Before implementing the Brother-to-Brother initiative, we observed a troubling trend of young men engaging in substance abuse within the camp,” Mhlanga remarked.
In collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Child Care and NAC, the Tongogara Refugee Settlement has successfully initiated 113 patients on Antiretroviral Therapy (ART).
This vital service underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring refugees and asylum seekers receive quality healthcare.
“Healthcare is a critical component of the refugee protection mandate,” Mhlanga asserted, reinforcing the necessity of inclusive health services.
The clinic at Tongogara provides free healthcare services, including HIV testing and treatment, immunizations, and maternal and reproductive health services, to all refugees, asylum seekers, and the local population.
“This initiative aligns with Zimbabwe’s constitution, which guarantees access to essential healthcare services,” he said.
Rugare Marambire, Sister in Charge at the Tongogara Clinic, praised NAC for its unwavering support in the fight against HIV.
She highlighted the clinic’s low rate of ART defaulters, attributing this success to their proactive follow-up programs that ensure patients receive their monthly medications consistently.
The Sister-to-Sister program aims to educate and empower young girls and women about HIV, promoting healthy behaviors and encouraging testing.
In parallel, the Brother-to-Brother initiative seeks to inform young men and boys about the risks associated with drug and substance abuse while promoting a lifestyle rooted in responsibility and health consciousness.
Together, these programs exemplify a holistic approach to health education, fostering a culture of awareness and proactive health management within the refugee settlement.
With ongoing support from NAC and local health authorities, the Tongogara Refugee Settlement is not only addressing HIV but also building a healthier, more informed community.
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