Stigma and discrimination are major factors inhibiting people from accessing readily available HIV and Aids support services in Zimbabwe, a Government official has said. Health and Child Welfare Minister Henry Madzorera said despite educating people about HIV and Aids, there still remained no respite for the infected.

"This is because of the air of mysticism that surrounded the disease with traditional healers even prescribing bizarre treatments like raping young virgins for a cure," Minister Madzorera said while addressing a gathering at the 2012 Auxilia Chimusoro HIV and Aids Alumni Award ceremony held in the capital last week.

Minister Madzorere applauded national and international partners contribution in the fight against HIV and AIDS in the country. He said without their help, the fight against HIV and AIDS would be virtually impossible. Zimbabwe and the United States are investing in youth to continue the fight against HIV/AIDS stigma.