Invest in health issues specific to women

Investing in the health issues specific to women and children is the solution if Zimbabwe is to see any meaningful economic and social development.

It is not only the right thing to do, but it also builds a stable, peaceful and productive society. It is important to note that a healthy and educated mother plays an extremely important role in making sure that her children are physically healthy, intellectually wise and academically outstanding.

Therefore, the first focus of Zimbabwe’s population welfare should be on education and health of the country’s female population.

“When women are healthy, educated and can participate in the economy, the benefits extend to their children, communities and the nation.

 “Poverty and malnutrition decline, living standards improve and economic growth increases,” Ms. Michelle Bachelet, United Nations Women Executive Director once said.

Meanwhile, the government should work with other stakeholders as this requires undivided attention and fierce commitment of all.

This is a view held at the top levels such as the UN where UN chief Ban Ki Moon said in September 2010: “We all have a role to play: business, international organisations, researchers, philanthropists, health professionals, and civil society. We must scale up our successes and provide the resources.

“Because investing in women’s and children’s health has a multiplier effect.

It is the best investment we can make.”

Therefore, there is a need for the Government to integrate women and children health issues into a comprehensive health package in order to attain the Millennium Development Goals of reducing Maternal and Child Mortality.

In compliance with legally binding international treaties, the government should support existing, costed national health plans to improve access to services.

The government should also respect, promote and fulfil the Right to Health as declared in the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights - Lazarus Sauti.