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