By A Correspondent
In a concerning turn of events, the New Start Centre has temporarily closed its office in Masvingo, leaving many concerned about the future of the vital services they offer. The closure is reportedly linked to the temporary suspension of US funding for Africa, a development that has sent shockwaves through the community.
In an official public notice released on Wednesday, the New Start Centre confirmed the closure.
The announcement has left many individuals who rely on the centre’s services uncertain about their next steps, particularly those who are due for antiretroviral treatment (ART) or pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) refills.
These treatments are vital for individuals living with HIV, and the disruption has raised alarms over the potential health consequences.
A New Start Centre employee, who spoke on condition of anonymity, expressed frustration at the situation, saying, “It’s not looking good, our clients are stranded. We have to wait and see, our hands are tied.”
The closure comes at a time when global health initiatives are facing increasing financial constraints, particularly due to the temporary withdrawal of US funding for African health programs.
This funding, which supports a variety of health services across the continent, has been crucial in providing care and treatment for people living with HIV and AIDS.
The closure of the Masvingo office raises concerns about the broader impact on the region’s public health efforts, with many people now left to seek alternative care from local health facilities. However, there is uncertainty about whether these facilities are equipped to handle the increased demand.
While the New Start Centre has assured the public that assistance can be sought from nearby health facilities, the employee’s statement reveals the frustration and confusion felt by both staff and clients during this difficult time.
For now, the future of the Masvingo office remains unclear, and many are left hoping for a swift resolution to ensure that those in need of critical health services do not fall through the cracks.