The 22nd International Conference on AIDS and STIs in Africa (ICASA) is being held with a focus on addressing inequalities and accelerating inclusion and innovation in the fight against AIDS and STIs. Dr. Bernard Madzima, head of Zimbabwe's National Aids Council, highlighted the conference's goals, including leadership in the HIV sector, scientific evidence for programs, and showcasing Zimbabwe's progress in meeting the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets. The conference will also address equity, inclusion, diversity, domestic funding, community response, and policy formation based on evidence. Despite a recent cholera outbreak in Harare, Health Minister Dr. Douglas Mombeshora assured that the situation is under control and will not affect the conference. The event will feature high-level meetings and exhibitions, with a special session by Zimbabwe’s first lady Auxillia Mnangagwa and her counterparts to discuss combating AIDS and STIs.

The 22nd International Conference on AIDS and STIs in Africa (ICASA) is being held with a focus on addressing inequalities and accelerating inclusion and innovation in the fight against AIDS and STIs. Dr. Bernard Madzima, head of Zimbabwe's National Aids Council, highlighted the conference's goals, including leadership in the HIV sector, scientific evidence for programs, and showcasing Zimbabwe's progress in meeting the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets. The conference will also address equity, inclusion, diversity, domestic funding, community response, and policy formation based on evidence. Despite a recent cholera outbreak in Harare, Health Minister Dr. Douglas Mombeshora assured that the situation is under control and will not affect the conference. The event will feature high-level meetings and exhibitions, with a special session by Zimbabwe’s first lady Auxillia Mnangagwa and her counterparts to discuss combating AIDS and STIs.

Southern Africa is on high alert due to a spread of cholera cases, with recent outbreaks in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Malawi. Poor waste water management and local government instability are cited as causes. The World Health Organization reports 28 million people affected in the region and seeks $171 million for containment. Zimbabwe's first case was recorded on April 24, with 358 cases to date. Harare's mayor is increasing water tankers and providing free aqua tablets. Malawi's outbreak, the worst in 20 years, has resulted in over 1,000 deaths. The United Nations warns that a billion people in 43 countries are at risk, highlighting a desperate need for resources.

The article discusses the arrest of Evan Mawarire, a pastor in Zimbabwe who became famous for his Facebook video that sparked the #ThisFlag movement, criticizing the state of the nation and President Robert Mugabe's regime. Mawarire was arrested upon his return to Zimbabwe and charged with subverting the constitutional order, a charge that could lead to decades in prison. The movement he led had gained significant traction in July 2016 when he called for a national stay-at-home protest, which saw a massive response. However, after his arrest and subsequent departure to South Africa and the United States, the movement lost momentum. His recent return has reignited interest in the movement, but it remains to be seen if it will regain its previous influence.

The article discusses the arrest of Evan Mawarire, a pastor in Zimbabwe who became famous for his Facebook video that sparked the #ThisFlag movement, criticizing the state of the nation and President Robert Mugabe's regime. Mawarire was arrested upon his return to Zimbabwe and charged with subverting the constitutional order, a charge that could lead to decades in prison. The movement he led had gained significant traction in July 2016 when he called for a national stay-at-home protest, which saw a massive response. However, after his arrest and subsequent departure to South Africa and the United States, the movement lost momentum. His recent return has reignited interest in the movement, but it remains to be seen if it will regain its previous influence.