Story by Aifheli Mudau
Government is prioritising maternal health services as part of broader efforts to improve the health and well-being of the citizenry.
This comes after a mothers’ waiting facility was commissioned in Silozwe area of Matobo District.
The new mothers waiting shelter expected to enhance prenatal care services and reduce maternal mortality rates in the area, has become a source of hope for mothers and the local leadership.
“Prior to the shelter’s construction, many women faced the challenges of long distances to the clinic, resulting in delayed prenatal care and increased risks to both mother and child. This is really recommendable because the venue is so convenient for us women,” said a woman from the area.
Another said, “This waiting room will help us to save money because we are no longer getting transport to other health facilities.We appreciate this project from the government.”
The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority-funded shelter is part of a broader effort to improve access to healthcare services in rural communities.
“What you see here is a waiting room for expecting mothers and as such it will help in reducing maternal deaths because it is now easy to access medical help. We recognize the importance of providing quality healthcare to pregnant women, as it directly impacts the health and well-being of both mother and child,” said Matabeleland South Acting Provincial Medical Director, Dr Andrew Muza.
Environment, Climate and Wildlife Minister, Dr Sithembiso Nyoni weighed in, “We don’t want to leave anyone behind in terms of development and this is what we have done as a government to help this community.”
The mothers’ waiting shelter is one of several government strategies being implemented to improve maternal health care across the country.
