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Statement by Deputy Prime Minister, Hon. Thokozani Khupe on rising maternal mortality in Zimbabwe
Deputy Prime Minister Thokozani Khupe
April 26, 2012

It is disheartening to note that the number of women in Zimbabwe dying during delivery has increased from 725 deaths for every 100 000 live births to 960 deaths for every 100 000 live births.

Our call for revitalizing the primary healthcare in general and the removal of user fees maternal care in particular will go a long way in addressing the unacceptably high rate of maternal and infant mortality in our country.

The deaths are increasing for both mothers and children further confirming the need for intervention.

Social services delivery and the overall development of the country remains in limbo as long as the health of our mothers and infants is still in deplorable conditions. As a country, we must strive to attain the MDGs, especially MDG 3,4 & 5 that are meant to bring about improved conditions for women and children.

As the Ambassador of Goodwill for CARMMA, I call for the speedy implementation of the policy on the removal of user fees.

I call for the urgent disbursement of funds extended through the Multi-Donor Health Fund as well as the financial support pledged by the Zimbabwean Government towards this endeavour.

The inability by the majority of our mothers to pay maternity fees contributes to this increase in maternal mortality. Availing this support could go a long way towards reversing the unfortunate trend.

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