In a significant boost to Zimbabwe’s health sector, UNDP Zimbabwe officially handed over 136 vehicles to the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC) in a ceremony held on Friday, August 2, 2024. The event, attended by Hon. Minister Dr. Douglas Mombeshora, CEO of the National AIDS Council Dr. Bernard Madzima, and other distinguished guests, marked a milestone in strengthening the country’s healthcare system.
Valued at US $4 million, the vehicles were procured with savings from efficiency gains of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, TB, and Malaria (Global Fund) GC6 HIV grant. These vehicles are intended to support the implementation of critical health programmes including HIV, TB, and Malaria, and will significantly enhance programme implementation and healthcare service delivery, particularly in hard-to-reach communities.
The allocation of these vehicles demonstrates the robust collaboration between UNDP, MoHCC, the National AIDS Council, and other key stakeholders. This partnership underscores a shared commitment to improving health outcomes and ensuring that essential health services reach all corners of Zimbabwe.
To ensure the long-term impact of this investment, the UNDP and Global Fund have committed to supporting fuel, service, and insurance costs for these vehicles from 2024 to 2026.
UNDP emphasized the importance of proper asset management, accountability, and security measures for the vehicles. Moving forward, UNDP will work closely with MoHCC and NAC to develop comprehensive fleet management plans and explore sustainable solutions beyond 2026, reinforcing UNDP’s commitment to building a resilient and equitable health system in Zimbabwe.
To date, the Global Fund has invested approximately US$2.8 billion in the public health sector in Zimbabwe since 2003.