Zimbabwe's Healthcare Revolution: Milestones in HIV, Financing, and Disease Response in 2024

As 2024 draws to a close, it is evident that this year has been pivotal for Zimbabwe’s health sector, marked by a series of significant achievements and initiatives aimed at enhancing healthcare services across the nation. The government’s commitment to ensuring universal health coverage has been particularly evident as various milestones reflect progress in combating diseases and improving overall health outcomes. One of the most notable achievements this year was Zimbabwe's recognition as one of the first African countries to meet the UNAIDS 95-95-95 global target in the fight against HIV and AIDS. This ambitious target aims for 95 percent of individuals living with HIV to know their status, 95 percent of those diagnosed to be on treatment, and 95 percent of those on treatment to have a suppressed viral load. While challenges remain, especially in reaching vulnerable populations such as children, this accomplishment is a commendable step forward in public health efforts. In a groundbreaking move, Zimbabwe also introduced the Cabotegravir long-acting injectable pre-exposure prophylaxis (CAB-LA) as part of its HIV prevention strategy. This product, which is being made available through a research study, signifies the country’s ongoing commitment to innovating in HIV prevention methods. The introduction of CAB-LA, alongside other preventive measures, illustrates a proactive approach to tackling the HIV epidemic. Despite the strides made in HIV care, the health financing landscape reveals stark disparities. Currently, only 10 percent of Zimbabweans have medical aid, placing a significant financial burden on a majority of the population who rely on out-of-pocket payments for healthcare services. This reality has placed immense pressure on the public health system, which remains the primary source of care for many. Recognizing this urgent need, the government hosted the National Health Financing Dialogue in November, focusing on developing local resource mobilization strategies. Health and Child Care Secretary, Dr. Aspect Maunganidze, emphasized the importance of innovative financing solutions, as traditional donor support declines globally. The government has also taken commendable steps to address pressing health issues such as cancer, which has been a major public health challenge. Notably, funds generated from a new sugar tax will be directed towards procuring cancer treatment machines for hospitals, underscoring a strategic approach to managing non-communicable diseases (NCDs). This initiative aligns with a broader agenda of integrating services to combat various health challenges, including diabetes and hypertension. 2024 has also tested Zimbabwe’s public health infrastructure with the resurgence of diseases such as cholera and the emergence of Mpox. The year began with a cholera outbreak that raised alarms reminiscent of the severe epidemic witnessed in 2008. However, through effective government interventions and collaboration with health partners, Zimbabwe was declared cholera-free by July. This success story was bolstered by a strengthened surveillance system that remains in place to handle any future outbreaks. Similarly, the country's response to the Mpox outbreak, which had the potential to escalate into a larger public health crisis, was commendable, with only two reported cases thanks to vigilant health monitoring. The challenges of healthcare personnel retention have also been a significant focus this year. With the country facing a critical shortage of skilled health workers, the Ministry of Health has initiated a comprehensive Human Resources for Health Strategy aimed at ensuring a sustainable and well-distributed workforce. The establishment of the Health Service Commission promises to enhance working conditions and improve the overall attractiveness of the health profession in Zimbabwe. Efforts to improve maternal and child health have yielded positive results, with targeted interventions leading to a reduction in mortality rates. Despite the maternal mortality rate still being high at 362 per 100,000 live births, there has been a notable decline from previous years. The government’s initiatives, such as enhancing blood stock availability and training healthcare providers, are crucial steps toward safeguarding the health of mothers and infants. As Zimbabwe looks ahead to 2025, the prospects appear promising. The Ministry of Health has set ambitious goals to continue reducing maternal and perinatal mortality rates, with plans to expand educational capacity for healthcare professionals and increase health service accessibility. By building on the successes of 2024 and addressing existing challenges, Zimbabwe is poised to create a healthier future for all its citizens. The commitment to health sector reform and innovation suggests that the nation is on a path toward meaningful improvements in healthcare delivery and outcomes.