Hauna District Hospital in Manicaland has recorded zero maternal deaths over the past four years, with authorities crediting partnerships among the government, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Global Fund.
The achievement is attributed to improved health infrastructure, strengthened service delivery systems and sustained support from development partners, which have collectively enhanced maternal healthcare outcomes at the rural facility.
UNDP Zimbabwe said improved facilities and collaborative support played a critical role in enhancing healthcare outcomes at the district hospital.
“Strong partnerships are helping to strengthen Zimbabwe’s health system and improve maternal health outcomes,” said UNDP Zimbabwe in its latest report.
“At Hauna District Hospital in Manicaland, improved facilities supported through the government of Zimbabwe, UNDP Zimbabwe and the Global Fund are transforming service delivery, contributing to zero maternal deaths over the past four years.”
UNDP Zimbabwe said investments in health infrastructure and service delivery systems were improving access to quality maternal healthcare while enhancing the capacity of healthcare workers to respond to emergencies.
“Strengthening district-level facilities is essential in ensuring that women and communities can access quality healthcare services closer to where they live.”
The agency added that partnerships with the government and international development partners remained critical in advancing sustainable health outcomes and supporting Zimbabwe’s broader health sector goals.
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According to the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency and the 2019 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey, Zimbabwe’s maternal mortality ratio stands at 462 deaths per 100 000 live births, down from 614 in 2010, representing a 25% decline.
However, the fight is far from over, as approximately 2 500 women die annually from pregnancy-related causes.
Child mortality has also seen steady improvement.
The infant mortality rate now sits at 38 deaths per 1 000 live births, while under-five mortality has dropped to 50 per 1 000 live births, according to Unicef Zimbabwe.
Neonatal deaths, those within the first 28 days, account for nearly 40% of child deaths, driven largely by preterm complications and birth asphyxia.
