Shocking STI Surge In Harare As 40-Somethings Top Infection List
Harare is experiencing a sharp rise in sexually transmitted infections (STIs), with health authorities raising the alarm over the increasing number of cases among middle-aged adults, particularly those in their 40s.
‘The numbers are worrying’
Speaking at a community health event in Hopley on Friday 21 June 2025, National Aids Council (NAC) provincial manager Mr Adonijah Muzondiona revealed:
“In 2024 alone, Harare recorded 25 457 new STI cases. Of these, 7 523 were repeat cases.
The age groups 40–44 and 45–49 recorded the highest numbers, with 3 927 and 3 229 new infections respectively.”
Women in the 45–49 age bracket are bearing the brunt, with 1 844 of those cases reported among females.
Mr Muzondiona did not mince his words:
“This increase in STIs highlights a significant public health challenge in Harare, one that requires urgent attention and targeted interventions.”
He attributed the surge to a mix of factors including risky sexual behaviour, low condom usage, and limited awareness about STI prevention, especially among older adults and vulnerable groups.
Gaps in prevention despite HIV progress
The spike comes despite gains in the fight against HIV, where Harare has reportedly reached the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets. However, STIs are proving to be a stubborn threat.
Mr Muzondiona explained:
“We are seeing STI trends that reflect a gap in sexual health education and preventive measures.
The problem is particularly visible in informal settlements and highly mobile communities where outreach is limited.”
The National Aids Council has begun using data-driven approaches to better allocate resources and identify high-risk groups, including adolescent girls, sex workers, and informal traders.
Programmes such as Sista2Sista, Brotha2Brotha, and DREAMS (Determined, Resilient, Empowered, AIDS-free, Mentored and Safe) have been launched to combat the crisis.
“These community-based initiatives are vital in creating awareness and reducing stigma, but more support is still needed,” said Mr Muzondiona.
Funding shortfalls hamper response
The guest of honour at the Hopley event, Minister of Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Harare, Mr Charles Tawengwa, was represented by his Permanent Secretary Mr Cosmas Chiringa. He stressed the financial strain faced by the sector:
“While we have the National AIDS Trust Fund, it is evident that we must continue being innovative and increase domestic resources to support the response.”
Mr Chiringa also noted that more must be done to tackle mother-to-child transmission of HIV.
According to the NAC, a holistic strategy has been adopted—combining STI, HIV, and non-communicable disease services. But repeated STI cases suggest that behaviour change remains limited.
As the STI surge continues, the message is clear: Harare needs sustained public health education, stronger funding, and a collective community response.
“We must scale up prevention and treatment services for vulnerable populations,” Mr Muzondiona concluded. “It is imperative that we do not lose momentum.”
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The post Older But Not Wiser: 40-Somethings Top STI Cases As Infections Spike In Harare appeared first on iHarare News.
