Authorities have raised concerns over the alarming rates of HIV infections and early pregnancies in mining areas and regions near illegal border crossings. These locations have been identified as high-risk zones for child sexual exploitation and the spread of HIV, prompting urgent intervention efforts.
According to data from the National AIDS Council (NAC), around 2,000 out of 30,000 girls aged between 10 and 19 became pregnant in Beitbridge and Insiza districts alone in 2024. Meanwhile, HIV prevalence in Matabeleland South Province remains troublingly high, exceeding 17%.
Beitbridge District Learner Welfare Services representative, Ignatius Mnikwa, highlighted the involvement of women known as “Mazalawi,” who assist travellers in carrying luggage across the river. He explained that children accompanying them often find themselves in vulnerable situations, leading to their exposure to sexual activities.
NAC Provincial Manager Mgcini Sibanda pointed out that Beitbridge and Insiza are among the worst-affected areas, with wards such as Tshasvingo, Dite, Lutumba, Siyoka, and Madiginye becoming hotspots for child marriages and early pregnancies due to cross-border movements. Insiza District AIDS Coordinator, Mpilo Maboyi, added that illegal gold mining operations in the region further contribute to the problem by fostering environments where HIV transmission and teenage pregnancies are prevalent.
In response to these rising concerns, the government and its partners have launched the ‘NotinMyVillage Campaign,’ a grassroots initiative aimed at curbing child marriages and raising awareness about the dangers of early pregnancies and HIV. The campaign, supported by the Young People Network for Health and Welfare and funded by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), seeks to mobilise communities and empower local leaders to drive change from within.
Young People Network for Health and Welfare representative, Luckmore Pamhidzai, emphasised that the campaign is rooted in community-driven action, believing that real change starts at the local level, where cultural norms and behaviours can be influenced.
Matabeleland South Province Medical Director, Dr Andrew Muza, described the situation as dire, noting that hospitals frequently receive pregnant 14-year-olds. Echoing this call for action, Ministry of Local Government and Public Works Acting Director, Jusa Zachariah, stressed the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders to effectively tackle the dual challenge of HIV and teenage pregnancies.
As the ‘NotinMyVillage Campaign’ gains momentum, authorities hope it will help curb the growing crisis, ensuring safer communities and better prospects for young girls at risk.
