Staff Reporter
Zimbabwe has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring universal access to sexual and reproductive health services, in line with the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) Programme of Action. This renewed focus marks a bold step toward improving public health outcomes and empowering women and adolescent girls across the country.
In a significant milestone, Zimbabwe has partnered the Swedish Embassy to scale up the reach and quality of family planning services. The initiative is a key pillar of Zimbabwe’s Family Planning 2030 (FP2030) pledge, which aims to increase the modern contraceptive prevalence rate from the current 48% to 54%.
Speaking at the strategic meeting, yesterday, Deputy Minister of Health and Child Care, Sleiman Kwidini, reaffirmed government 's commitment to improve public health.
“Government remains fully committed to universal access to healthcare, regardless of location or income. Through collaboration with partners such as Sweden and Population Services Zimbabwe, facilities like Mbare Clinic are now functional and accessible, especially for women and girls,” he said.
The partnership is backed by a US$5 million contribution from the Swedish government, focusing particularly on improving services for youth and marginalized populations.
“As the Swedish Embassy, we prioritise reproductive health and rights. Our support targets young girls and women across Zimbabwe to ensure they can access essential services,” said Swedish Ambassador Per Lindgärde.
The impact is already being felt on the ground, with women expressing gratitude for improved access to contraceptives and information.
“I am happy we can now plan when to give birth. It helps reduce the risk of unplanned pregnancies,” said one woman at a local clinic.
Another shared, “Access to family planning has empowered me to make informed decisions about my body, space my pregnancies, and focus on my goals.”
“This initiative has truly changed my life. I feel confident, can manage my career, and provide better for my family,” added another beneficiary.
One of the key achievements of the programme has been the reopening of the Mbare Clinic in Harare, which is now delivering essential reproductive health services to the community.
Zimbabwe’s focus on family planning, maternal health, and women’s empowerment is not only a public health priority but a strategic lever for socio-economic growth. As the country strengthens its health systems under the FP2030 and ICPD frameworks, it is laying a foundation for a healthier, more inclusive future for all.
