By Kuda Pembere in Chinhoyi
Zimbabwe on Wednesday commemorated the 2025 International Day of the Midwife (IDM) with renewed calls to strengthen the capacity of midwives, particularly in times of crisis.
Despite limited resources, midwives have played a pivotal role in reducing maternal and neonatal mortality.
The IDM is traditionally held on May 5 across the globe and this year’s theme is, “Midwives: Critical in Every Crisis.”
Speaking at the national commemorations in Chinhoyi, Deputy Minister of Health and Child Care Hon. Sleiman Kwidini emphasized the need to value and support these essential healthcare workers.
“Even in humanitarian settings, they provide safe delivery services, antenatal and postnatal care, contraception, abortion care, and support for survivors of gender-based violence. They also promote breastfeeding and offer critical health education that empowers communities,” Kwidini said.
“Despite their vital contributions, midwives are often undervalued, under-resourced, and excluded from planning and response frameworks. This year’s theme reminds us that this must change. Midwives must be central to healthcare planning and systems and must be adequately supported, protected, and empowered, especially in times of crisis.”
He assured midwives of government support.
“The Minister of Health and Child Care and the Government of Zimbabwe, under the leadership of His Excellency Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, recognize that midwives in this country need comprehensive support to deliver quality care and reduce maternity-related complications,” he said.
Commending their patriotism, he praised midwives for their continued service in-country.
“This annual observance celebrates the dedication and impact of midwives both in Zimbabwe and globally. It is also a call to action to strengthen support for the profession and ensure its integration into broader health and development strategies. This year’s theme affirms that midwives are critical in every crisis.
“You are doing a good job despite the challenges. As we carry out our duties in hospitals, let’s remember we are saving lives in our communities. We are not doing this for others, we are doing it for our own people.
“We appreciate the international community’s support, including from the Swedish government, which is helping reduce birth and maternal complications. That is the main agenda,” he said.
Kwidini also acknowledged the role of midwives during climate disasters such as Cyclone Idai.
“Communities across the globe are grappling with overlapping crises, from natural disasters and pandemics to armed conflict and climate change. Women, girls, and gender-diverse individuals often bear the brunt, facing greater risks during pregnancy and reduced access to healthcare.
“In such contexts, midwives are indispensable. Frequently, they are the first and sometimes the only healthcare providers available in their communities,” he said.
United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Zimbabwe Country Representative Miranda Tabifor commended the government and midwives for progress made in reducing maternal mortality, though she noted more work is needed.
“Through the efforts of midwives, the maternal mortality ratio has declined significantly, from 525 per 100,000 live births in 2012 to 362 in 2022. It’s a commendable improvement, but still too high. The vision for 2032 is zero maternal deaths. No woman should die giving birth,” she said.
Swedish Ambassador to Zimbabwe Per Lingarde highlighted the importance of sustainable investment in reproductive health.
“The Swedish government remains a key partner in Zimbabwe’s health sector. Strengthening midwifery services before, during, and after childbirth, including contraceptive counseling, has been central to Sweden’s efforts to reduce maternal and child mortality.
“However, the current shift in funding landscapes poses challenges. We urge the Government of Zimbabwe to see this as an opportunity to build resilient health systems and take greater ownership of service delivery.
“Increased domestic investment in sexual and reproductive health and rights is essential, in line with the Abuja Declaration,” he said.
Fifteen midwives from the country’s ten provinces were honored for their outstanding service.
