Talent Gore
THE International Conference on AIDS and SITs in Africa (ICASA) will go ahead in Zimbabwe despite concerns about a cholera outbreak.
The conference is scheduled for December and the Ministry of Health and Child Care said the outbreak had now been contained.
Dr Aspect Muanganidze, permanent secretary in the Ministry of Health and Child Care, said the health system was ready to deal with any incidents that arose during the conference.
“Our health systems and services have also been mobilised to ensure that both visitors and locals have access to the needed services during the conference.
“You may have heard recently that there was an outbreak of cholera in some parts of Zimbabwe, but I wish to assure you all and our visitors that the isolated outbreak has been contained and our surveillance system is exceptionally effective and has picked all cases and they have been treated.”
He said the ICASA programme was now ready and all government systems were in place.
“Structures were in place from security, transportation, health, banking, accommodation, and travel to provide support before and during the conference.
“All delegates are assured that Zimbabwe remains a peaceful destination and their security will be assured.”
National AIDS Council (NAC) chief executive officer, Dr Bernard Madzima, said all logistical arrangements were in order.
“We have a steady inflow of airlines which is adequate to cover our inflow of visitors during the ICASA.
“We have also mobilised ground transport services with an agreed standard fare.
“All designated vehicles for pick-up and drop-off points will be marked,” he said.