HEALTH and Child Care minister Douglas Mombeshora has been honoured at the 23rd International Conference on Aids and STIs in Africa (ICASA) in Ghana yesterday, in recognition of what organisers described as exceptional leadership in strengthening Zimbabwe’s HIV response and advancing the country’s global health profile.
Speaking after receiving the award, Mombeshora said the recognition was a reflection of Zimbabwe’s collective effort in fighting HIV, crediting health workers, communities and development partners for sustaining progress.
“This honour is not about me alone. It speaks to the resilience of our health system and the commitment of Zimbabweans who continue to push back against HIV,” he said.
“Our focus has always been to save lives, strengthen treatment coverage and ensure no one is left behind.”
The minister said the award reaffirmed the impact of Zimbabwe’s approach, including expanded testing services, decentralised treatment, community-led prevention programmes and partnerships aimed at improving access to life-saving interventions.
“We have worked hard to improve treatment outcomes and reduce new infections, and we will continue prioritising evidence-based strategies that protect our people,” Mombeshora said.
Meanwhile, ICASA organisers also celebrated Zimbabwe’s hosting of the 2023 edition, describing it as one of the most well-co-ordinated meetings in the conference’s history.
Mombeshora said the 2023 conference boosted collaboration and renewed commitment among African countries.
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“ICASA 2023 was not just an event it was a milestone in strengthening continental solidarity in the fight against HIV, and Zimbabwe was proud to lead that process,” he said.
Former Health minister David Parirenyatwa, now president of the Society for Aids in Africa (SAA) and leader of ICASA 2025, was also recognised for his long-standing contribution to the continental Aids response.
ICASA officials praised his guidance in shaping regional policy and sustaining momentum in the fight against HIV over several decades.
With Zimbabwe receiving two top honours at the conference, the awards highlight the country’s continued relevance in Africa’s HIV response and signal growing confidence in its leadership ahead of ICASA 2025.
