Health Reporter
Zimbabwe is taking significant steps to enhance its maternal healthcare services by collaborating with nine Russian health experts who are in the country to share their expertise in managing neonatal and obstetric complications. This initiative was announced by Health and Child Care Minister Douglas Mombeshora during a workshop aimed at addressing the high rates of neonatal and perinatal mortality.
Goals of the Initiative
The partnership with Russia is viewed as a crucial effort to reduce maternal mortality to below 70 per 100,000 live births and neonatal mortality to 12 per 1,000 live births. Mombeshora emphasized the government’s commitment to improving reproductive, maternal, newborn, and adolescent health services, ensuring that healthcare is accessible, affordable, and of high quality for all citizens.
Currently, Zimbabwe’s maternal mortality ratio stands at 363 per 100,000 live births, with under-five mortality at 39.8 deaths per 1,000 live births. The neonatal mortality rate has remained static at 31 deaths per 1,000 live births. Mombeshora noted that while there has been an increase in antenatal care coverage and institutional deliveries, the country still falls short of meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) targets.
Expert Insights
Taazada Nhemachena, one of Zimbabwe’s leading obstetricians, expressed optimism about the partnership, stating that it is expected to significantly improve healthcare outcomes for patients and enhance maternal and neonatal health in the country.
Addressing HIV and Aids Among Youth
In addition to maternal health, the Ministry of Health and Child Care is also focusing on the challenges faced by children, adolescents, and young adults living with HIV. Aspect Maunganidze, the permanent secretary of the ministry, highlighted that approximately 2.4 million young individuals globally face difficulties accessing healthcare services. In Zimbabwe, only 55% of adolescents living with HIV are on antiretroviral therapy (ART), compared to 76% of adults, with a notable gap in achieving viral suppression.
Maunganidze pointed out that adolescents experience the highest rates of treatment attrition and mortality, exacerbated by mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety. He emphasized the need for targeted services for young people living with HIV through age-appropriate responses.
The collaboration with Russian health experts represents a proactive approach by Zimbabwe to tackle pressing health issues, particularly in maternal and neonatal care. By enhancing healthcare services and addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, the government aims to improve health outcomes and work towards achieving international health targets.
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