Dr Mombeshora Honoured for Strengthening HIV Response

Itai Mazire

Zimbabwe’s Minister of Health and Child Care, Hon. Dr Douglas Mombeshora, has been honoured at the 23rd International Conference on AIDS and STIs in Africa (ICASA) in Ghana for his outstanding leadership in strengthening the country’s HIV response.

Dr Mombeshora received the recognition for guiding major reforms that improved access to HIV treatment, expanded prevention programmes for children and adolescents, and strengthened coordination among health partners. Conference organisers also highlighted Zimbabwe’s successful hosting of ICASA 2023 under his stewardship, an event that drew thousands of delegates from across Africa and beyond.

The International Conference on AIDS and STIs in Africa (ICASA) is a biennial gathering that brings together African researchers, policymakers, and activists to address infectious diseases. The conference focuses on key health challenges including HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, COVID-19, and other emerging diseases. Its primary goal is to promote the sharing of evidence, strengthen health systems across the continent, and advocate for integrated, collaborative responses to public health threats.

Former Health Minister Dr David Parirenyatwa, now President of the Society for AIDS in Africa and ICASA 2025, was similarly recognised for his long-standing service to the regional AIDS response.

Health officials say the award shows Zimbabwe’s progress in HIV prevention and treatment, particularly among children and vulnerable populations.