Zim, China and UNFPA Celebrate Milestone in Post-Cyclone Maternal Health Project

The Government of Zimbabwe, the People’s Republic of China, and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) have officially marked the successful completion of the Health Assistance Project for Women and Girls Affected by Tropical Cyclone Idai.

Launched in the aftermath of Cyclone Idai in 2019, the US$1.24 million initiative funded through the China South-South Cooperation Assistance Fund (SSCAF) aimed to restore and strengthen maternal health services in cyclone-affected regions.

The project was implemented by UNFPA in close partnership with Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Health and Child Care.

Speaking at the signing ceremony of the project’s completion certificate at the UNFPA Country Office in Harare, Wednesday, Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe, His Excellency Zhou Ding praised the collaboration, describing it as “a testament to what can be achieved through cooperation, dedication, and shared humanity.”

“This project has brought security and dignity to mothers and children in the cyclone-affected regions. It represents lives saved, families strengthened, and communities empowered,” Zhou said.

Deputy Minister of Health and Child Care, Dr Sleiman Kwidini said the project has played a critical role in improving maternal health outcomes.

“We have witnessed a significant improvement in the capacity and quality of maternal health services. Maternal mortality has declined from 462 per 100,000 live births in 2019 to 362 in 2022. However, achieving the SDG target of 70 deaths per 100,000 by 2030 will require sustained, multifaceted partnerships,” Dr. Kwidini said

UNFPA Country Representative, Mrs. Miranda Tabifor, hailed the project as a model for international collaboration.

“This is a powerful example of South-South cooperation. The initiative has transformed maternal health in disaster-affected districts. UNFPA remains committed to partnering with Zimbabwe and China to further reduce preventable maternal deaths,” she said.

Nearly 300 health workers were trained in emergency maternal and neonatal care, while, 81 health facilities received essential maternal health equipment and medicines.