Story by Silibaziso Dlodlo
GOVERNMENT has commended midwives for their critical role in strengthening maternal healthcare service delivery as Zimbabwe intensifies efforts to improve maternal and child health outcomes nationwide.
This emerged as Zimbabwe joined the rest of the world in commemorating the International Day of Midwives, with the main celebrations held at the United Bulawayo Hospitals under the theme, “One Million More Midwives.”
The commemorations brought together government officials, development partners and healthcare professionals, who called for increased investment in midwifery services while recognising outstanding healthcare workers from across the country.
President of the Zimbabwe Confederation of Midwives, Mrs Farai Machinga, described midwives as the backbone of maternal healthcare systems.
“Midwives have been the guardians of women’s health from time immemorial. Midwives are specialised health professionals who have dedicated their lives to ensuring that women, children, their families and communities are supported throughout pregnancy.”
United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Sweden Country Representative, Ms Miranda Tabifor, said the commemorations were also about celebrating the dedication and sacrifice of midwives.
“Today we are not only talking about numbers that we lack, but we are also celebrating the heroes we have.”
Swedish Ambassador to Zimbabwe, His Excellency Mr Per Lindgärde, said midwives remain central to resilient healthcare systems.
“Today’s commemorations allow us not only to celebrate midwives but also to reflect on the critical role they play in strengthening health systems.”
The Deputy Minister of Health and Child Care, Honourable Sleiman Kwidini, said midwives remain at the centre of Zimbabwe’s maternal health care system.
“Midwives are the guardians of new beginnings, the steady hands, comforting voices and life-saving experts who ensure childbirth remains a journey of joy, dignity and safety,” Honourable Kwidini said.
Outstanding midwives from Zimbabwe’s 10 provinces were honoured for excellence in service delivery, mentorship, technical competency and contributions towards improving maternal healthcare.
Senior Midwife at Victoria Chitepo Hospital in Mutare, Mrs Mufaro Kutsirai, said the recognition was a testament to dedication and teamwork.
“I want to thank God a lot for the gift I received today because I believe the work we are doing is a calling,” she said.
Sister-in-Charge for Maternity Services at Bulawayo Hospitals, Mrs Sehlule Siziba, said the award reflected collective effort.
“It is a great honour to receive this award and to be recognised. I thank the entire team because it can only be a team effort,” she said.
Chitungwiza Central Hospital midwife, Ms Precious Hamandishe, expressed gratitude for the recognition.
“I am so happy to receive this award because it shows that my work has been noticed,” she said.
Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals midwife, Mr Jairos Cephas Mufuka, also welcomed the recognition.
“I feel so honoured today to be here receiving this award, something that I was not expecting,” he said.
Health authorities said recognising outstanding midwives is expected to motivate more healthcare workers to continue providing quality maternal and child health services across the country.
