Story by Tichaona Kurewa
THE steady supply of essential medicines in Binga District, Matabeleland North Province, has reinforced Zimbabwe’s health delivery system and progress toward achieving its 2030 national health targets.
This stability comes at a time when global health funding has come under pressure, following reduced United States government support for several developing countries earlier this year. Despite these changes, the government’s commitment to strengthening domestic resource mobilisation has ensured that local health facilities remain adequately stocked.
In the remote Simatele area, under Chief Siachilaba, villagers expressed satisfaction with the consistent availability of medicines, including HIV treatment and chronic disease drugs.
“We are accessing medical supplies such as Anti-Retroviral drugs, BP medication, and others and we are thankful to the government and its partners for rising to the occasion.
“We are still receiving our medication here at Simatelele Clinic and there has been no disruption in supply. This helps prevent unwanted pregnancies and reduces new HIV infections.
“We thank our government for the continued supply of medicines at our local clinic. It ensures treatment adherence and cuts travel costs,” community members said.
Officials from the National AIDS Council (NAC), who conducted a media tour in the district on Thursday, confirmed that the consistent supply of drugs remains a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s national HIV response strategy.
“If people living with HIV continue to receive medication and adhere to treatment, the goal to end AIDS by 2030 will indeed be a reality. This ensures that no one defaults on their medication. All the programmes that we are also implementing will not be affected,” NAC’s Monitoring and Evaluation Officer for Matabeleland North Province, Mr. Mthokozisi Moyo said.
According to NAC Binga District’s HIV interventions have shown positive results so far, with the 2024 HIV prevalence recorded at 5.1 percent and new HIV incidences at 0.06%.
