Chief blames rising HIV cases on marital infidelity

Traditional leader Chief Ndanga, born Wilson Makono, has expressed deep concern over the alarming rise in HIV infections in Zaka District, particularly in the Ndanga area, attributing the trend to growing infidelity among married couples and a reluctance to seek medical treatment.

Speaking at a development engagement meeting with Members of Parliament and village heads held at Chipezeze Primary School in Ward 7 on June 14, Chief Makono revealed that Zaka has the highest HIV prevalence rate in the province. "Zaka district had 11.06 percent, which means it is the highest contributor of people living with HIV in Masvingo," he said.

Makono pointed to growing promiscuity in areas under his jurisdiction, including Ndanga Business Centre and Gumbo, where he claimed brothels are thriving and young women, some informally known as "Tokwe Mukosis," camp in search of clients. The term stems from the relocation of girls from Tugwi-Mukosi who allegedly turned to sex work in search of livelihoods.

Although acknowledging the presence of sex workers, the chief said they are not the primary drivers of infections due to their tendency to take protective measures. Instead, he blamed the surge in infections on secretive extramarital affairs by married individuals, which he said are less likely to involve protection.

"Chimbavha chemudzimba chawandisa, muri kubirana (infidelity is on the rise). Those in sex work often protect themselves, but those who sneak around at night engage in unprotected sexual activities. Married men and women are the most affected. Infidelity has increased," Makono warned.

He urged couples to consider lawful polygamous arrangements if they feel the need to have multiple partners, rather than engaging in deceitful relationships that contribute to the spread of disease. "What causes this? Is it demons? Since the law permits it, why not marry more women officially? Nyaya yekuchachura ndiyo yaita kuti zvirwere zviwande (Infidelity has brought about the spread of diseases)," he said.

Makono also raised concern over the reluctance of individuals to seek medical help, noting that fear of exposure and accountability is preventing many from getting tested or treated. "The same people who are not loyal do not want to seek treatment. We will end up losing lives. Let us be faithful people," he urged.

Beyond health concerns, Chief Makono addressed other pressing social issues, including the recent death of a teenage bride in Zaka due to childbirth complications. He called for increased oversight of religious sects operating in rural areas, stressing the need to balance freedom of worship with cultural values and child protection.

"We are not against any religious sects, but they must have limits. Section 16 of the Constitution speaks about culture. Every person in Zimbabwe must respect our culture. Every church must be known to the village head and monitored regularly, because some things happening in these churches are outrageous," he said.

Chief Makono's remarks reflect a growing concern among traditional leaders about the intersection of culture, health, and morality in Zimbabwe's rural communities. As HIV continues to threaten public health, particularly in under-resourced districts like Zaka, leaders are calling for collective responsibility, community education, and stronger engagement with both health and cultural institutions to curb the epidemic.