Tsholotsho Records Highest HIV Prevalence in Matebeleland North

By Makhosethu Ndlovu

The latest third-quarter HIV statistics for 2024, presented at the recently held National AIDS Council’s stakeholder meeting in Bulawayo, have highlighted Tsholotsho District as having the highest HIV prevalence rate in Matebeleland North.

The district stands at a concerning 21.1%, the highest in the region, while Binga has the lowest rate at 6.13%.

Overall, Matebeleland North has an estimated 89,839 people living with HIV, a decrease from 93,046 in 2019. Among this population are approximately 5,500 children, with Tsholotsho recording the highest number of children affected by the virus.

The data also revealed notable disparities in HIV incidence across age and gender lines. Females aged 14-44 years show a higher incidence rate compared to males in the same age bracket, with the highest rates found among men over 55 and young women aged 15-24.

Despite the continued challenges, the region has seen significant progress in reducing HIV prevalence.

There has been a steady decline over the past five years within the 15-49 age group, a positive trend that mirrors the broader progress since 1999. As of 2023, the province’s overall HIV prevalence rate stands at 14.45%.

The findings underscore the importance of targeted prevention and education programs, particularly for young women and older men, to sustain and further the gains in managing the HIV epidemic in the province.