BY STAFF REPORTER

A total of 104 inmates are living with HIV across eight correctional facilities in Matabeleland North, according to data from the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services.

The figures, which were first reported by the Chronicle, were presented by ZPCS Assistant Principal Correctional Officer Godknows Ncube during a National Aids Council stakeholder meeting in Bulawayo.

Of the inmates recorded as positive, 98 are aged 25 and older, while six are under the age of 25. The affected facilities include Victoria Falls Prison, Hwange Prison, Ntabazinduna Satellite Prison, Anju Farm Prison, Tsholotsho Prison, Lupane Prison, and Binga Prison .

During the most recent quarter, 144 inmates underwent testing for HIV, resulting in one positive diagnosis .

While correctional facilities received 900 male condoms, officials reported that no female condoms were provided. Ncube noted the need to address this gender bias and ensure that female protectors are available for inmates.

The prison service is also facing challenges with medication adherence. Ncube emphasized that there is a high number of defaulters, particularly among younger inmates who were aware of their HIV status before entering the system.

He called for the integration of HIV services with other health programs and stressed the importance of strengthening monitoring and reporting within the prisons. Currently, some facilities in the region are not yet accredited to provide antiretroviral therapy services, highlighting a need for further staff training and equipment

BY STAFF REPORTER 

A Lupane man has been sentenced to 12 months in prison for physically abusing his wife on two separate occasions.

The incidents occurred on December 27, 2024, and January 2 this year, with the accused assaulting his wife with open hands, fists, and a whip, causing injuries to her face and body.

The court heard that the first incident was sparked by a domestic dispute over the complainant’s whereabouts on Christmas Eve.

The accused became violent, assaulting his wife, who managed to escape and seek refuge at her aunt’s homestead.

In a shocking turn of events, the accused visited his wife at her aunt’s homestead, seeking forgiveness, and she agreed to return home with him.

However, upon their arrival, the accused again accused his wife of infidelity and assaulted her multiple times with a whip.

The court sentenced the accused to 12 months in prison, with six months suspended on condition of good behavior.

In Zimbabwe, domestic violence is a serious crime, and perpetrators can face up to 10 years in prison under the Domestic Violence Act [Chapter 5:16]. The court’s decision in this case sends a strong message that domestic violence will not be tolerated.

BY WANDILE TSHUMA

A 32-year-old man is on the run from the law after allegedly murdering a 24-year-old woman in Lupane.

Vuminkosi Dlamini is accused of stabbing Pink Moyo multiple times at Sibombo Business Centre on December 6.

According to police, Dlamini allegedly committed the crime after accusing Moyo of luring his cousin into prostitution.

The police are urging anyone with information on Dlamini’s whereabouts to report to their nearest police station.