Tsholotsho tops HIV prevalence in Matebeleland North Province

Tsholotsho has recorded the highest HIV prevalence rate in Matebeleland North Province at 17.8%, significantly above both provincial and national averages, raising concern among health authorities over ongoing transmission drivers linked to migration and low prevention uptake.

The figures were released by the National AIDS Council of Zimbabwe (NAC) during a first-quarter 2026 HIV programme review meeting held in Bulawayo.

NAC monitoring and evaluation officer Mthokozisi Moyo said Tsholotsho remains the most affected district in the province, followed by Lupane.

"Tsholotsho District has the highest HIV prevalence that stands at 17.8 percent and surpasses the provincial and national rates. It is followed by Lupane with 15.4 percent. The provincial rate stands at 11.4 percent," he said.

Health experts say labour migration remains a key driver of infection in the district, with many men travelling to neighbouring countries such as South Africa and Botswana for work, leaving partners behind for long periods.

The meeting noted that Binga District recorded the lowest prevalence in the province at 5.1 percent among people aged 15 to 49.

Officials also raised concern over disparities in condom uptake, linking low usage to cultural norms and limited demand, and called for stronger community education and improved access to female condoms.

Mr Moyo said the province recorded 3 013 new sexually transmitted infection (STI) cases during the first quarter, suggesting ongoing risky sexual behaviour in some communities.

He added that Tsholotsho also recorded the highest HIV incidence rate in the province at 0.21 percent, followed by Umguza at 0.17 percent, while Binga remained the lowest at 0.06 percent.

HIV incidence measures the number of new infections over a specific period and is used to track the rate of transmission within a population.

Zimbabwe continues to strengthen its HIV prevention response through new interventions, including the rollout of long-acting prevention tools.

Last year, the Ministry of Health and Child Care introduced Lenacapavir, a twice-yearly injectable HIV prevention drug, marking one of the country's most significant shifts in prevention strategy.

The injectable treatment, which targets high-risk groups such as adolescent girls, young women, sex workers and other vulnerable populations, is part of Zimbabwe's broader efforts to reduce new infections and improve adherence to prevention programmes.