Spousal Separation Driving New HIV Infections in Bulilima and Mangwe

Spousal separation has emerged as a leading factor contributing to new HIV infections in Bulilima and Mangwe districts, health officials have revealed.

Large numbers of men from the two districts migrate to neighbouring countries such as Botswana and South Africa in search of employment, often leaving their families behind. Health authorities say this prolonged separation exposes both partners to high-risk sexual behaviours.

During a media tour organised by the National AIDS Council (NAC), Bulilima District AIDS Coordinator Ronald Hanyane said migration-related family separation continues to fuel the spread of HIV in border communities.

“Spousal separation is one of the major drivers of new HIV infections in the district,” said Hanyane. “Many people travel without proper documentation and end up crossing the border illegally. Some young people who migrate in this way are exploited and engage in unprotected sex for survival, which increases their vulnerability to infection.”

Bulilima District currently has an HIV prevalence rate of 17.6 percent, the highest in Matabeleland South Province. The burden is particularly high among women, with hotspot areas identified around Maitengwe Border Post, Madlambudzi Growth Point, Ndolwane Growth Point, and Bhagani Business Centre.

In neighbouring Mangwe District, NAC Programmes Coordinator Elenny Mpofu reported an HIV prevalence rate of 16.8 percent, with the 15–49 age group recording the highest rate of new infections in the province.

Mpofu attributed the continued spread of the virus to poverty, transactional sex, intergenerational relationships, and the growing number of child-headed households.

“Many young girls are pushed into early marriages or teenage pregnancies due to economic hardship,” Mpofu said. “The movement of artisanal miners and informal traders through these areas has also contributed to risky sexual behaviour.”

To address the situation, NAC has intensified HIV prevention and awareness campaigns targeting border communities, young people, and families affected by migration, with the aim of reducing new infections and improving access to health services.