The City of Masvingo in partnership with Pangaea Zimbabwe today held a one day workshop in Masvingo with the objective of gathering feedback from the Community Advocacy Board (CAB) on introduction of new HIV prevention products, specifically focusing on catalyzing access to innovative solutions.

About 15 participants were drawn from Masvingo city and Ngundu where the new products are being rolled out.

Workshop agenda included feedback about the study which is introduction to CATALYSING ACCESS TO NEW PREVENTION PRODUCTS TO STOP HIV, that is Pangaea Zimbabwe’s HIV prevention efforts, overview of new prevention products (e.g., PrEP, injectable PrEP, PrEP ring), group discussions on; awareness and understanding of new products, potential benefits and challenges, community concerns and misconceptions, accessibility of products and recommendations.

Key takeaways from the workshop include:

concerns on community education and awareness,

community-led education and awareness campaigns.

Quote from Pangaea Zimbabwe Representative:

“We value the insights and expertise of our Community Advocacy Board. Their feedback is crucial in shaping our response to HIV prevention and ensuring our programs meet community needs.”

The City of Masvingo’s Health Services Department in partnership with Pangaea Zimbabwe has warned against backdoor services related to Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), emphasizing the importance of accessing these services through authorized healthcare providers.

This caution is crucial due to the risks associated with unauthorized or unregulated treatment, which can lead to ineffective or even harmful care.

Risks of Backdoor Services

– Ineffective treatment: Unregulated PrEP services may provide substandard or counterfeit medications, leading to treatment failure or drug resistance.

– Health complications: Improperly managed PrEP can result in serious health complications, including increased viral load and transmission risk.

– Lack of monitoring: Backdoor services often don’t provide adequate monitoring, making it difficult to track treatment effectiveness or identify potential issues.

Runyararo Clinic in conjunction with Pangaea Zimbabwe offers various PrEP options, including:

– Oral PrEP: Highly effective in reducing the risk of HIV infection.

– Injectable PrEP (CAB-LA): A long-acting injectable PrEP recently approved by the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ).

– PrEP viganial ring for women

To ensure safe and effective PrEP services, it’s essential to consult authorized healthcare providers in the city.

City of Masvingo has been recognized for its exceptional customer service, receiving the coveted Best Customer Service Award at the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce Award Night.

This esteemed award acknowledges City of Masvingo’s unwavering commitment to delivering outstanding customer experiences, exceeding expectations, and fostering long-lasting relationships.

City of Masvingo is dedicated to providing world-class service, ensuring every interaction leaves a lasting, positive impression.

This award validates Council team’s tireless efforts to listen, innovate, and delight stakeholders.

The Award Ceremony brought together industry leaders, recognizing excellence in customer service. City of Masvingo was selected from a pool of notable nominees, demonstrating exceptional customer-focused strategies.

City of Masvingo’s Town Clerk, Eng Edward Mukaratirwa has been recognized as Manager of the Year by Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce. This esteemed award honors exceptional leadership, strategic vision, and outstanding achievements in management.

The Manager of the Year Award is presented annually to recognize outstanding managers who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and commitment to excellence.

A panel of industry experts selected Eng. Edward Mukaratirwa from a pool of talented nominees.

Eng Edward Mukaratirwa’s Achievements

Under Eng. EdwardMukaratirw’s ‘s leadership, City of Masvingo has:

– Achieved remarkable development

– Successfully constructed an engineered landfill

– Successfuly constructed Rujeko Secondary School

– Fostered a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion

– Developed strategic partnerships and collaborations

– Provision of potable water to city 8 hours daily.

This recognition is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion of the Town Clerk.

City of Masvingo is driven by innovation and customer satisfaction.