Zimbabwe has secured a fresh three-month consignment of antiretroviral (ARV) drugs, extending current stock levels until the end of September, Health and Child Care Minister Dr Douglas Mombeshora has confirmed. He made the announcement during a Senate question-and-answer session on Thursday, assuring lawmakers that the new supply was procured two weeks ago to bolster an earlier six-month stock acquired at the beginning of the year.
The new consignment comes amid fears of potential ARV shortages following reductions in health aid from the United States government. Dr Mombeshora revealed that the latest purchase was funded through local resources, particularly the National AIDS Trust Fund, which is supported by mandatory contributions from formally employed citizens via the AIDS levy.
“For the first six months up to June, we have enough supply of medicines and tablets,” he said. “Last week, we bought the second batch to cover another three months from the end of June to September. I instructed the department to prioritise ARVs, TB, and malaria medication so that we have enough stock available locally.”
He urged people living with HIV to continue adhering to their treatment plans, dismissing fears of stockouts. “We understand there were people panicking and skipping medication out of fear, but let me assure everyone—we have enough ARVs,” Dr Mombeshora said. Treasury is currently being engaged to secure further funding for future medical supplies.
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Professor Amon Murwira also addressed the issue, stating that Zimbabwe must respect the sovereign rights of other nations regarding foreign aid. “Rather than lament the withdrawal of US support, we should focus on domestic solutions,” he said. “We have the legislative capacity and structures to fund our own health programmes.”
