Fired For Being HIV-Positive? ZHRC Probes Shocking Dismissal Of Bulawayo Security Guard

The Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC) has launched a formal investigation into claims that a Bulawayo-based security firm fired a female employee solely because she is HIV-positive.

The woman, a 40-year-old widow from Entumbane who worked as a security guard, alleges she was dismissed after her employer demanded proof of her HIV status following a routine medical visit to Gokwe. Although the company initially approved her medical leave, officials later insisted she provide documentation about her health condition—before abruptly terminating her employment.

Sources reveal that the demand for her medical records came from an administrator at the company’s Bulawayo office, raising serious concerns about discrimination and the violation of employee rights.

ZHRC Chairperson Jessie Majome, speaking from an international human rights conference in The Gambia, condemned the company’s actions, calling them "unacceptable violations of fundamental rights." She stressed that the alleged dismissal could breach several constitutional protections, including the right to personal dignity, freedom from discrimination, protection against degrading treatment, medical privacy, fair labour practices, and access to healthcare.

Majome assured the public that the ZHRC is committed to a thorough investigation and vowed that the commission would seek accountability and explore possible remedies for the affected woman if the violations are confirmed.

Meanwhile, the security company at the centre of the controversy has remained silent, issuing no public statement. Legal experts warn that if the allegations are proven true, the firm could face serious legal and reputational consequences under Zimbabwean law.

The investigation is ongoing.