Zimbabwe Reports Notable Increase in HIV-Related Deaths During First Half of 2025

Health and Child Care Minister Douglas Mombeshora presented comparative data showing 5,932 recorded deaths in the first six months of 2025, compared to 5,712 during the equivalent period in 2024. The figures emerged during Wednesday’s parliamentary question session initiated by Kwekwe representative Corban Madzivanyika.

HIV-Related Deaths During First Half of 2025 Increase

Several legislators voiced apprehension that reduced international support for HIV/AIDS initiatives might be contributing to the mortality increase. Madzivanyika specifically questioned whether donor withdrawal created treatment accessibility challenges for patients.

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“The current mortality figures don’t reflect funding shortages,” Minister Mombeshora asserted. “All necessary medications were procured before any budget reductions took effect.”

The Health Minister emphasised that Zimbabwe maintains sufficient antiretroviral drug stocks through September, with additional shipments expected to cover year-end requirements. He cautioned against premature conclusions, noting comprehensive mortality analysis typically occurs during annual reviews.

Parliamentary Scepticism Persists

Opposition members, including Emakhandeni-Luveve’s Discent Bajila and Chiredzi Central’s Ropafadzo Makumire, challenged the official explanation, pressing for alternative causes behind the increase in mortality.

Temporary Speaker Joe Tshuma intervened, supporting the Minister’s position that January-June statistics couldn’t reflect recent funding changes.

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The discussion occurs against the backdrop of shifting international HIV/AIDS funding patterns, including previous US aid suspensions under the Trump administration. Despite these challenges, Zimbabwe has achieved notable success in meeting UNAIDS’ 95-95-95 targets – a global benchmark for HIV diagnosis, treatment, and viral suppression in adult populations.

Health authorities continue monitoring the situation, with Minister Mombeshora reiterating that current medication supplies remain adequate to serve all patients enrolled in treatment programs nationwide.