Harare – (New Ziana) African governments must continue to invest in health systems that provide accessible and equitable healthcare to every individual, regardless of their socio-economic status or geographic location, a cabinet minister said on Saturday.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 22nd edition of the International Conference on AIDS and STI’s in Africa (ICASA), Foreign Affairs Minister Dr. Fredrick Shava, who was the guest of honour, told delegates that strong health centers were crucial as consensus from the Conference is that AIDS is not yet over and consequently, should remain on the priority list of Governments, Development Partners and Communities.
He said recommendations and decisions adopted by the Conference will undoubtedly give renewed impetus to the fight against HIV and AIDS.
“Over the past few days, stakeholders have engaged in critical discussions, shared knowledge, and explored innovative approaches to combat the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and AIDS epidemic, other Sexually Transmitted Infections and, emerging epidemics in Africa.
“It is our hope that the outcomes of the Conference will generate incisive research, influence policy development, and lead to the implementation of effective prevention and treatment programmes,” he said.
He said the continent should heed calls made by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, in his statement at the beginning of the Conference, to support research in indigenous medicines, harnessing the vast natural resources that Africa is endowed with.
“Local production of medicines will ensure constant and uninterrupted supply and in the long term reduce the disease burden on our continent,” he said.
He said Zimbabwe was privileged to have hosted a conference of such significance and thanked local and internation partners for ensuring the success of the 6 day conference.
“I would like to express gratitude to all the participants who dedicated their time and expertise to this important event.
“We were honoured with the presence at ICASA 2023 of Madam Winnie Byanyima, Executive Director, The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV-AIDS (UNAIDS) and Dr Matshidiso Rebecca Moeti ,World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Director for Africa. Their attendance of ICASA 2023 certainly gave impetus to the conference. Their engagements with Government reaffirmed the solid partnership between Zimbabwe and the WHO and UNAIDS,” he said.
He urged participants to leave the conference inspired and energized to continue work in their respective countries, united in the commitment to achieving an AIDS-free generation.
“Together, we can build a future where no place and no person is left behind, and every individual enjoys good health and well-being,” said Shava
ICASA president Dr. David Parirenyatwa said the conference was a success and becoming more international than continental.
“The seriousness of the issues has made this conference gain international recognition.
“We may say it is an African conference but people gathered here came from various parts of the world”, he said.
New Ziana
