Zimbabwe, ranked 155th on the Human Development Index, is one of the poorest countries in the world. Zimbabwe was once one of southern Africa’s most vibrant, productive, and resilient countries. However, over the past two decades, it
Zimbabwe, ranked 155th on the Human Development Index, is one of the poorest countries in the world. Zimbabwe was once one of southern Africa’s most vibrant, productive, and resilient countries. However, over the past two decades, it has faced a series of political and economic crises which have led to a breakdown in all public services.
Zimbabwe’s high mortality and illness rates are a result of an under-resourced health delivery system, which is overstretched by the high burden of HIV, maternal and childhood illnesses.
While the rate of HIV prevalence in Zimbabwe has decreased in the last decade, it is still one of the highest in the world at 15%. Children with HIV and disability are among the most vulnerable and marginalised across the country.
The World Health Organisation estimates that more than 125,000 people are living with avoidable blindness in just two districts of Zimbabwe. Our work in Zimbabwe focuses on children living with HIV and disability and improving eye-health services.