Story by Memory Chamisa
OVER 8000 delegates are expected to converge in Zimbabwe for the 22nd International Conference on AIDS and STIS (ICASA), set for Harare from the 4th to the 9th of December.
In a media briefing on the state of preparedness for one of Africa’s premier HIV and STIs conferences in Harare this Wednesday, the Minister of Health and Childcare, Dr Douglas Mombeshora said everything is in place including accommodation, transport, and security.
Dr Mombeshora said, “The country is more than ready to host Africa and others from across the globe for this year’s edition of ICASA. This is the second time Zimbabwe will be hosting the prestigious event. Everything has been double checked thoroughly from accommodation transport system and security. We assure our delegates that their safety is our priority, and they will have a good time here. As the host country, we have also strengthened health systems, and reported cases of cholera are under control hence guests have nothing to worry about. There are also events that are going to take place before the conference including the First Lady’s meeting (MTCT) and the African Ministers of Finance Meeting.”
ICASA Executive Director, Mr Luke Bodea revealed that over 250 sessions are set to take place, with robust scientific research papers expected to be presented.
“We must applaud Zimbabwe for the great work it has done since 2015 when it last hosted the conference. Tremendous development has taken place from infrastructure to the airports which is a great move for this conference’s success. Also expected are findings from research in HIV and Aids, Malaria with over 250 sessions set to take,” he noted.
According to the World Health Organisation (W.H.O) over 1,3 million people are estimated to be living with HIV.
Zimbabwe already has a mandatory levy to support domestic financing for HIV and AIDS without relying on external funds.
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