Harare, (New Ziana) – There is need for immediate action to strengthen healthcare systems in the country, particularly focusing on worker training and improved referral networks, in a bid to reduce maternal and perinatal deaths, a Cabinet Minister has said.
Minister of Health and Child Care Dr Douglas Mombeshora said this at the induction of the new Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance and Response (MPDSR) committee for the 2025–2028 term, highlighting the urgency of addressing systemic weaknesses that contribute to high mortality rates.
“To meet our national targets of reducing neonatal mortality to fewer than 12 per 1 000 live births and maternal mortality to fewer than 70 per 100 000 live births by 2030, we must be proactive. This committee has a responsibility to identify and close the gaps in our health delivery system,” he said.
He stressed the need for actionable evidence-based interventions that include improved training for healthcare providers, enhanced community engagement, and streamlined, functional referral systems to prevent the so-called “three delays” associated with maternal and perinatal mortality.
These include delays in seeking care, reaching care, and receiving appropriate care.
“We need to be vigilant in spotting problems and addressing them quickly and effectively. Every mother and baby lost is a tragedy we must work to prevent,” he added.
Established in 2015, the MPDSR committee plays a central role in the efforts of the health sector to analyze and respond to maternal and perinatal deaths.
The committee uses its findings to develop SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-bound) recommendations aimed at reducing preventable deaths.
Speaking at the same event, Dr Rumbidzai Makoni, a renowned obstetrician and gynaecologist who is the incoming deputy chairperson of the MPDSR committee, outlined its commitment to fostering a constructive environment for health professionals.
“To improve surveillance and response, we will champion a ‘no blame, no shame’ approach. Our audits will not be punitive. We must separate learning from disciplinary action if we are to truly improve care and outcomes,” he said.
Dr Makoni said the new committee would promote openness and support health workers in addressing root causes without fear of reprisal, creating a safe space for healthcare professionals to engage in honest evaluations and continuous learning.
The MPDSR system remains a cornerstone in Zimbabwe’s public health strategy and its function in identifying avoidable causes of death and recommending targeted interventions has already led to several policy changes in previous years.
As the country races towards achieving the 2030 health targets, the role of the MPDSR committee is set to grow more significant with increased focus on innovation, data analysis, and collaboration across all levels of healthcare provision.
New Ziana
