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Sharon Masocha
THE Ministry of Health and Child Care has initiated programmes to address challenges of high maternal mortality rates in Zimbabwe by equipping healthcare providers with the necessary skills to manage obstetric complications effectively.
The Ministry believes that improving the quality of maternal care is crucial to saving lives and reducing preventable deaths.
Speaking during the Data to Policy programme in Harare on Thursday, Ministry of Health and Child Care national maternal child health officer Dr Chipo Chimamise emphasised the need for community awareness programmes to educate women about the importance of timely medical intervention during pregnancy.
“We must focus on training our healthcare workers and ensuring that they have access to essential equipment.
“The ministry’s approach includes a combination of in-service training and the provision of critical medical supplies, which are vital for managing pregnancy-related complications effectively.
“We need to address the root causes of delay in seeking care, which often stem from inadequate facilities and lack of trained personnel.
“There is a need to educate women about the importance of timely medical intervention during pregnancy by empowering them with knowledge,” she said.
Dr Chimamise indicated that the ministry has set targets specifically to reduce maternal mortality.
“The Sustainable Development Goals reflect a strong commitment to improving healthcare services and insuring that no women dies while giving birth.
“The ministry’s ongoing efforts will be crucial in achieving this target and fostering a healthier future of Zimbabwean mothers,” said Dr Chimamise.
Tinaye Agere
Online Reporter