UN Women and NAC Study Highlights High HIV Incidence Among Adolescent Girls and Young Women in Matabeleland South, Zimbabwe

UN Women Zimbabwe and the National AIDS Council (NAC) conducted a study to examine the high HIV incidence among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in Zimbabwe, particularly in Matabeleland South. The research explored social, economic, behavioral, and cultural factors contributing to the crisis, aiming to inform targeted HIV response strategies.

The study assessed barriers to HIV prevention, testing, and treatment while evaluating existing programs for AGYW. It identified service gaps and provided recommendations for more effective interventions. Field visits covered all seven districts, with a focus on Mangwe, Bulilima, Matobo, and Beitbridge, engaging diverse groups, including AGYW, adolescent boys, young men, sex workers, and other vulnerable populations.

Key findings revealed limited HIV awareness, engagement in transactional and intergenerational sex, gender inequality, negative role models, economic vulnerability, and multiple sexual partners as major risk factors. Misconceptions about HIV transmission and prevention, including circumcision beliefs and low perceived risk, further increased AGYW’s vulnerability. Economic hardship also drove risky behaviors, such as unprotected sex for financial support.

The study highlights the urgent need for a holistic, multi-sectoral approach to HIV prevention in Matabeleland South. Addressing these challenges requires targeted education, economic empowerment, and gender-sensitive interventions to reduce HIV incidence and promote healthier futures for AGYW and the wider community.