Story by Providence Maraneli
COMMUNITY acceptance and unity are emerging as powerful tools in the fight against HIV-related stigma and discrimination in Beitbridge, where people living with HIV are forming cooperatives to improve livelihoods and support one another.
Among them is 75-year-old Gogo Sibongile Tshuma from Mtetengwe, who has been on antiretroviral therapy (ART) for more than 15 years.
Despite her age, Gogo Tshuma remains healthy and active, inspiring others living with HIV through her resilience and positive outlook on life.
She is part of a community group made up of villagers on ART who have joined forces to establish income-generating projects aimed at improving nutrition, sustaining families and strengthening community support systems in line with efforts to end AIDS by 2030.
Reflecting on her journey, Gogo Tshuma said access to treatment and community support transformed her life.
“I was once bedridden, but the medication changed my life in 2012. Today I am healthy and actively participating in community cooperatives,” she said.
Another group member, Appearance Sibanda, said the cooperative’s poultry project has significantly improved members’ livelihoods.
“We sell eggs and free-range chickens, then share the proceeds among ourselves. We started by contributing 20 rand each, and now the project has grown,” she said.
Other beneficiaries said the support groups had given them renewed hope and helped improve their health and emotional well-being.
“If it were not for this group, I could have died because I was very ill. The support system has helped me recover and remain strong,” one member said.
“We encourage and motivate one another every day,” another member added.
Project members also highlighted the importance of the initiatives in improving household nutrition and reducing food insecurity among vulnerable families.
Through programmes such as the Community ART Refill Group (CARG) and the Sister-to-Sister initiative, Beitbridge District has recorded progress in reducing stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV.
Beitbridge District AIDS Coordinator Mr Edward Mlaudzi commended the community-based groups for promoting inclusion and acceptance.
“We are impressed by the impact these groups are having in communities. They are helping people become more accepting and supportive of those living with HIV,” he said.
Authorities have since called for continued support and sustained community engagement to preserve the gains made as Zimbabwe intensifies efforts to achieve the global target of ending AIDS by 2030.
