The Danger of "Assumption": David Manema Uncovers the Silent Spread of STIs Among Married Couples and Youth
By Investigative Reporter: David Manema
In the quiet suburbs of Harare and the busy streets of Bulawayo, a dangerous myth is fueling a health crisis: the idea that marital status or social standing equals "safety."
Health activists warn that hidden sexual networks are becoming the primary drivers of untreated STIs and HIV infections.
The "Marriage Shield" Myth
During recent community dialogues organized by the Zimbabwe Sex Workers Alliance and Springs of Life Zimbabwe (SLZ), a chilling trend emerged: married people are increasingly engaging in unprotected sex with third parties.
The Assumption of "Cleanliness"
Precious Msindo (SLZ): "People tend to assume married people are ‘clean’ and indulge in unprotected sex... We see them coming nicodemously to our offices seeking assistance because they are afraid or shy to come out openly."
The Sex Worker Paradox
Interestingly, professional sex workers (like Sengi Chari and Grace Tembo) insist on condoms to safeguard their health, while "hidden" relationships often bypass protection entirely based on blind trust.
Youth: The Silence of Stigma
Young people are becoming sexually active earlier, but the fear of judgment is stopping them from seeking help until it's too late.
Delayed Treatment
Because of fear and stigma, many youths delay seeking testing or treatment for STIs. Frazer Mpofu notes that discrimination in healthcare settings continues to push these vulnerable groups into hiding.
A Breakthrough and a Lesson
The Government’s rollout of Lenacapavir—a long-acting HIV prevention injection—is being hailed as a game-changer. However, medication alone cannot solve the problem.
Behavior Over Status
Queen Ncube (Alliance Spokesperson): "Risk is now more about behaviour than status. We cannot continue focusing only on traditionally recognised groups while ignoring risky sexual behaviour happening quietly within communities."
David Manema's Health "Heads-Up"
The Teaching: Trust is Not Protection
We must stop equating social respectability with biological safety. A wedding ring is not a condom. A high social standing is not an HIV test result. David Manema urges communities to prioritize health over "reputation." If you have been at risk, seek testing immediately. Silence is the greatest driver of the pandemic.
Break the Stigma
As Fortune Jena highlighted, fear keeps infections spreading. Let us support our youth and peers in accessing healthcare services without judgment. Knowledge is power, but action saves lives.
Let's Save Lives Together
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