Story by Abigirl Tembo, Health Editor
ZIMBABWE’S leadership in the fight against HIV and AIDS received continental acclaim with the country scooping two prestigious awards at the ongoing International Conference on AIDS and STIs in Africa (ICASA 2025) in Accra, Ghana.
The award acknowledged the success of government’s HIV interventions and Zimbabwe’s successful hosting of ICASA 2023, which brought thousands of delegates to Harare and set a benchmark for regional conferences.
Speaking after the awards ceremony, the Minister of Health and Child Care, Dr Douglas Mombeshora said the honour reflected the country’s collective effort.
“It was a surprise that there was an award for Zimbabwe, and also to me as Minister of Health. I am told it was in recognition of the way we hosted ICASA two years ago in Zimbabwe, which was a success. Zimbabwe has been the only country to host ICASA twice. This award is a sign of appreciation for the work being done here in Zimbabwe,” he said.
It is pleasing that outside, people recognise and appreciate the work that we are doing here in Zimbabwe. We also want to thank President Emmerson Mnangagwa for the support he gave us during the ICASA period. Surely, if that had not been supported at the highest level, we would not have managed to successfully host that. This is not an award for one person, it is for Zimbabwe as a whole. Many people contributed in different ways, from excellent exhibitions to research and presentations, which truly put Zimbabwe on the map.”
Dr Mombeshora also received an award in his capacity as the Minister of Health and Child Care, and so were former Health Minister Dr David Parirenyatwa, the current President of both the Society for AIDS in Africa (SAA) and ICASA 2025.
Dr Parirenyatwa received special recognition for over two decades of dedicated service to SAA and ICASA, a contribution widely regarded as instrumental in amplifying Africa’s voice on the global HIV stage and ensuring the conference remains a platform shaped by African priorities.
The accolades have further cemented Zimbabwe’s position as a regional leader in HIV prevention, treatment, and health system strengthening backed by strong political will and a sustained commitment to ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
