Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Zimbabwe's HIV response has received global recognition after National Advocate Tendayi Westerhof was honoured with the prestigious IAC 2026 FIERCE Award for her outstanding contribution to women-led advocacy for the rights of women and girls living with HIV.
Presented during the 2026 International AIDS Conference in Rio de Janeiro, the FIERCE Award celebrates women living with HIV who embody the qualities of being Fighters, Intelligent, Empowered, Resilient and Courageous. The award recognises leaders whose work has transformed communities, challenged stigma and discrimination and advanced the global HIV response.
Ms Westerhof dedicated the recognition to women living with HIV across Zimbabwe and the world. "HIV has always had the face of a woman, and the terrain is not good for women, especially women living with HIV," she said. This award belongs to every woman who continues to show resilience despite the challenges we face in the HIV response.
Ms Westerhof acknowledged the support she has received from the Government of Zimbabwe and the National AIDS Council (NAC), noting that it had enabled her to amplify the voices of women and girls living with HIV.
NAC Chief Executive Officer, Dr Bernard Madzima, congratulated Ms Westerhof on the international honour, describing it as a proud achievement for Zimbabwe. "Ms Westerhof's recognition is well deserved. It is a testament to the country's sustained investment in community leadership and to the power of women leading the HIV response," Dr Madzima said.
Ms Westerhof serves on the NAC Board, representing people living with HIV.
The National AIDS Council joins the nation in celebrating this milestone and reaffirms its commitment to supporting community advocates who continue to drive Zimbabwe's HIV response forward.
