Harare, Zimbabwe – March 4, 2025
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Nearly 300 babies and 54 women tragically lost their lives in Zimbabwe due to complications during childbirth in January 2025 alone, as reported by Deputy Minister of Health and Childcare, Sleiman Kwidini. The figures were disclosed during a recent parliamentary session, sparking widespread concern about the state of maternal and neonatal healthcare in the country.
Harare Province recorded the highest toll, with 111 neonatal deaths and 19 maternal fatalities. “The maternal deaths as of January 2025 stand at 54,” said Kwidini. “In 2024, Harare accounted for 19 maternal deaths and 111 neonatal deaths.”
The Deputy Minister attributed the surge in deaths to several key factors. Leading the list of causes were hypertensive disorders and complications such as renal failure. Other significant contributors included post-partum hemorrhage, complications following abortion, and issues related to both normal and Caesarean section deliveries.
The health ministry has called for urgent reforms in maternal care, citing these figures as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by the healthcare system. The government is under pressure to improve the quality of services, particularly in the prevention and management of hypertensive disorders, post-partum hemorrhage, and safe delivery practices.
Experts are urging both local and international communities to come together to support the healthcare sector, which continues to struggle with resource shortages and an overwhelmed system. As the nation confronts these devastating statistics, the call for action has never been more urgent.
