Published by the government of Zimbabwe
21 July 2008
Harare — THE Southern Africa HIV and Aids Information Dissemination Service has said about 400 000 children under 15 years were infected with the virus last year through mother-to-child transmission.
In the absence of treatment, half of the children born with HIV die before they are two years.
"Children affected and infected with HIV have been neglected for some time now and there is need for all stakeholders to seriously consider their issues," said SafAids executive director Mrs Lois Chingandu.
In terms of current policy, Zimbabwe incorporated mother to child transmission and anti-retro therapy for children in the Zimbabwe National HIV and Aids Strategic Plan of 2006-2010 period.
Previously, HIV positive children were omitted in both the national HIV and Aids policy and the Strategic Framework of 1999. In light of the sad development, SafAids will on Wednesday this week host a discussion forum on children and anti-retroviral treatment.
The forum will bring together representatives from Government, people living with HIV and Aids, activists, Aids service organisations dealing with children's issues, private sector, community and faith-based organisations. Participants are expected to deliberate policy direction in the management of ART and children and share information on different models of managing children on ART in the country.
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