In a bid to scale up the provision of Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision (VMMC) services, the Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ), in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, recently conducted a comprehensive training programme for healthcare providers in Lusaka Province. The training brought together nurses and clinical officers from Luangwa, Rufunsa, Chongwe, and Kafue districts.
The ten-day training, focusing on theoretical knowledge and practical skills, aimed at increasing the number of competent VMMC providers in the province. Participants were trained in the necessary competencies to perform safe VMMC procedures, thereby contributing to improved healthcare delivery and HIV prevention.
Speaking during the official opening of the training, Kafue District Health Director, Dr Sydney Hamusonde, expressed gratitude to CIDRZ for its continued support in strengthening healthcare services.
“This training is a vital step towards enhancing the skills of our healthcare providers. I urge all participants to serve as ambassadors of VMMC in their respective districts, ensuring that they apply their new skills effectively,” he said.
Dr Hamusonde further highlighted the significance of VMMC in HIV prevention, noting that the procedure is associated with an approximately 60% reduction in the risk of female-to-male transmission of HIV.
He explained that VMMC promotes improved genital hygiene and reduces the risk of certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and other health complications.
“VMMC should continue to be promoted as an additional, efficacious HIV prevention option. CIDRZ is complementing government efforts, but it is our responsibility as healthcare providers to ensure the programme’s success,” Dr Hamusonde added.
This hands-on training enhanced participant skills through classroom-based instruction and practical experience in various hospitals in Kafue District. This approach ensured that healthcare providers gained the confidence and skills necessary to perform safe and effective VMMC procedures.
The training was part of CIDRZ, and the Ministry of Health’s shared commitment to scaling up VMMC services to achieve the country’s HIV prevention goals.