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One Million Tested in Zimbabwe HARARE, Zimbabwe, November 28, 2007 — The Zimbabwe Ministry of Health and Child Welfare and PSI/Zimbabwe celebrated the achievement of the one millionth person tested for HIV through the New Start network since the program was launched nearly eight years ago. The one-millionth client received an all-expenses paid weekend trip for two to Victoria Falls. New Start was the first network to offer HIV testing and counseling services in Zimbabwe. Since opening in Harare in 1999, the network has grown to 20 New Start centers which offer on-site and mobile services covering urban and rural areas throughout Zimbabwe. An average of 25,000 clients currently receive HIV counseling and testing through the New Start centers every month. The New Start franchise works in partnership with local organizations to make services widely available and easily accessible. The first campaign, "Make a New Start Today," emphasized hope and peace of mind as key benefits of knowing one's HIV status. The most recent campaign launched in 2006, "Get Real Early," stresses the potential of HIV testing and counseling services to facilitate access to early and effective treatment for those who test positive. More than 20 countries, including Mozambique, Zambia, Botswana, Namibia and South Africa have adopted aspects of the New Start model into their own HIV prevention programs.
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