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PrEP pilot program aims to reduce HIV transmission in Hwange district

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BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI

Hwange District Medical Officer Fungai Musinami recently shared insights on the current HIV prevalence in the district, response to HIV and AIDS, challenges, and strategies for improving HIV testing and treatment uptake, particularly among key populations.

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Musinami highlighted the ongoing program of Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) being rolled out to key populations, including sex workers and men who have sex with men.

“We are implementing an injectable PrEP program, particularly in key populations, which we believe will contribute significantly to the body of knowledge and direct future HIV/AIDS care. This is a pilot program, and we are eager to see the results, which will inform our future strategies.”

Regarding HIV prevalence, Musinami noted that Hwange district has seen a decline, but still has a higher prevalence compared to other districts due to mobile movement and tourism activities.

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“We have seen a decline in HIV prevalence, and deaths from end-stage AIDS have become lower than in the 80s and 90s. However, as a border town, we have a lot of mobile movement, and tourism activities sometimes lead to people engaging in sexual activities for money, which impacts our HIV prevalence.”

Musinami emphasized the importance of HIV testing, stating, “We encourage everyone to get tested, know your status… We have several facilities where people can get tested, including New Start Center, Victoria Falls hospital, Chinotimba Clinic, and laboratories. We are also distributing self-test kits to increase awareness and encourage people to take control of their health.”

One of the biggest challenges, Musinami noted, is teenager and adolescent pregnancies, intergenerational sexual activity, and exposing young women to HIV infection. “We are seeing a lot of teenager and adolescent pregnancies, which is a challenge. Some of these young people are engaging in sexual activities, and intergenerational sexual activity is exposing young women of childbearing age who are at a higher risk of transmission. We are implementing several adolescent-centered programs to support adolescents living with HIV.”

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The comprehensive HIV program in Hwange district includes HIV testing and counseling services, ARVS and ART services, voluntary male medical circumcision, and condom distribution. Musinami emphasized the importance of implementing multiple methods to reduce HIV transmission.

To reach hard-to-reach areas, the district has an outreach program that provides integrated services. Musinami concluded by encouraging everyone to get tested, know their status, and stay on treatment to achieve viral suppression.

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Hwange

Hwange mourns the loss of Africa’s giant: Big Charlie Nyoni

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BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI 

The community of Hwange is in mourning after the passing of Charles Nyoni, affectionately known as Big Charlie, a giant of a man who stood at an astonishing 2.10 meters tall and weighed 288kg.

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Big Charlie’s demise yesterday has sent shockwaves throughout the nation, with many remembering him as a gentle giant and a local icon. His larger-than-life personality and towering physique earned him the title of Hwange’s own Goliath and possibly the biggest man in Africa.

According to a close relative, Big Charlie was admitted to St. Patrick’s Hospital last Friday, where he succumbed to his long-standing health issues. He had been battling gigantism, acromegaly, high blood pressure, and diabetes in recent years.

The Office of the MP for Hwange Central constituency has issued a statement confirming Big Charlie’s passing and appealing for urgent financial assistance to cover his medical expenses. The community is rallying around the Nyoni family, with many calling for support to help with the burial costs.

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“Big Charlie was more than just a local celebrity; he was a symbol of hope and resilience for our community,” said Daniel Molokele, Hon. MP for Hwange Central constituency. “We urge everyone to come together and support the Nyoni family during this difficult time.”

As the community comes to terms with the loss of this giant of a man, memories of his infectious smile, kindness, and generosity continue to flood social media. Big Charlie’s legacy will undoubtedly live on, inspiring future generations with his remarkable story.

The family has appealed for donations to help with the burial expenses. Those wishing to contribute can contact Florence Sibanda on 078 732 8056.

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Hwange

Jambezi officer of the law turns alleged rapist

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BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI

A 39-year-old police officer stationed at Jambezi has been arraigned before the Victoria Falls Magistrates’ Court on charges of raping a 13-year-old girl. The alleged incident occurred on January 18, at around 12:30 am, when the accused officer reportedly pounced on the minor, who was with her cousin at the time.

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According to the allegations, the police officer questioned the two girls about their presence at that late hour, and they explained that they were waiting for their sister. The accused then dragged the 13-year-old behind a nearby shop, where he fondled her breasts, kissed her, and ultimately raped her.

In an attempt to silence his victim, the police officer bought her two soft drinks, two packets of biscuits, and a bottle of opaque beer. The accused has been remanded to February 7, pending further proceedings.

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Hwange

Victoria Falls man appears in court for rape of 13-year-old girl

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BY STAFF REPORTER 

A Victoria Falls man was arraigned before the Victoria Falls Magistrates Court on charges of raping a 13-year-old girl.

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According to the National Prosecuting Authority, the  alleged incident occurred on October 10, last year, at around 7 pm, at a house in Chinotimba Township.

The accused allegedly entered the complainant’s bedroom while she was alone, forcefully undressed her, and raped her.

After the assault, he threatened to kill her if she revealed the incident to anyone.

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The matter only came to light on January 12, when the complainant confided in her aunt about her ordeal.

The case has been remanded to tomorrow.

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