IBSR launched

By The NewsDay | Oct. 19, 2015 | 2 Min read

ZIMBABWE has launched the Inquiry-Based Stress Reduction (IBSR) resource centre to address HIV-related self-stigma among people living with HIV and Aids.

BY VICTORIA MTOMBA

Speaking at the programme launch in Harare last Friday, Health and Child Care deputy minister Aldrin Musiiwa said the launch came at an opportune time when the country had concluded the National Stigma Index Survey in December 2014.

“I am honoured to officiate at this launch, as the resource centre will act as a hub to this unique innovation in the response which is the first of its kind in the country and the whole continent, to address HIV self-stigma. Of particular note at this juncture is that while the Zimbabwe Stigma Index Survey is the 51st to be undertaken globally, it is the first one to clearly articulate practical ways of addressing self-stigma,” Musiiwa said.

The pilot project began in 2013 with two participants and the group increased to 23 amid projects that the group could increase to 45 participants next month.

According to the stigma index study, 65,5% of the respondents reported having experienced one or more forms of stigma and discrimination, and that one in every five people (18,9%) admitted to feeling guilty and having a low self-esteem because of their HIV status.

“This is clear indication that HIV-related stigma and discrimination remains a lived reality for People Living with HIV in Zimbabwe today, and therefore warrants all of our commitment and creativity to address it,” Musiiwa said. Zimbabwe National Network for People Living with HIV executive director Muchanyara Mukamuri said her organisation’s partnership with Connect and Trocaire was beginning to bear fruits.

“Real issues such as recognising stigma as a barrier to treatment, care and long life has brought us this far. Stigma from others has been what most people were worried about, yet self-stigma is also very poisonous for People Living with HIV,”she said.