The HTF is a multi-donor pooled fund which is being set up to support the Ministry of Health and Child Welfare in Zimbabwe in order to accelerate progress on the health and nutrition related Millenium Development Goals.
“This Fund has the potential to make a real difference in improving the lives of the most vulnerable people in Zimbabwe – particularly women and children," said Ambassador-Designate Brandon McMahon in announcing the special grant.
This much-needed support is set to give a boost to the overall health delivery system in Zimbabwe, but will be particularly important to improve maternal and child health which had deteriorated in the past decade.
Currently one in three children are stunted, 100 children die every day due to easily preventable diseases, while eight women die every day in pregnancy related complications.
Last year, Zimbabwe launched the Health Sector Investment Case which revealed that Zimbabwe’s Health Sector will need an additional investment of $700 million over the next three years to reduce under five and maternal mortality by 38 percent and 17 percent, respectively.
“Zimbabwe’s health challenges continue to require a collective response to ensure that we reach the health related Millennium Development Goals 4, 5 and 6,” said Dr Peter Salama, UNICEF Representative.
Since 2008 Irish Aid has provided over $24 million in humanitarian and development assistance to Zimbabwe.
A major focus of Ireland’s programme of support has been in tackling the HIV/AIDS pandemic in Zimbabwe with support to the Zimbabwe AIDS Network to improve the quality and coverage of community and home-based care.
Ireland continues to provide funding to the United Nations Joint Expanded Support Programme on HIV/AIDS, which has successfully increased the provision of care and treatment at national and district level.
Irish Aid also supports UN Agencies and NGOs which are addressing hunger and food security and improving health and education services in Zimbabwe.
Post published in: Health