By Christopher Miti
The Madzimawe Chiefdom in Kasenengwa District has strengthened by-laws requiring women to give birth in health facilities rather than at home.
Chief Madzimawe announced that families failing to take expectant mothers to health facilities will be fined a goat, with the collected goats donated to health centres.
The traditional leader explained that the new regulations are part of efforts to improve maternal health in the community. He noted that the construction of more maternity annexes, such as the one built by World Vision at Khoza Rural Health Centre, will enable more women to deliver safely in health facilities.
Chief Madzimawe made the remarks when World Vision handed over a maternity annex to government in Kasenengwa District.
Eastern Province Public Health Specialist Dr. Francis Mubanga said the provincial health office will adopt a “One Health” approach in addressing maternal health matters.
Meanwhile, Eastern Province Local Government Officer Alex Bwalya assured that the local authority will work with community committees to maintain the new maternity annex.
World Vision Country Director Marc Nosbach reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to working alongside government to enhance healthcare delivery in the region.
