Staff Writer
UNICEF Zimbabwe has launched an ambitious plan to deliver life-saving support, aiming to reach 1.6 million people, including 1.3 million children, 155,739 individuals with disabilities, and 188,617 people living with HIV.
The effort focuses on addressing urgent needs through integrated services in health, nutrition, water and sanitation, education, child protection, and social protection.
In a statement Unicef said” In 2025, Zimbabwe will confront a dire humanitarian crisis, with an estimated 7.6 million people—3.5 million of whom are children—in urgent need of assistance.
“This crisis, driven by an El Niño-induced drought, widespread food and nutrition shortages, devastating floods, and public health emergencies, threatens the lives and livelihoods of millions across the country, especially the most vulnerable.”
UNICEF Zimbabwe said the worsening situation poses a significant threat to the well-being and survival of millions, especially children, who are among the most vulnerable.
“To achieve these goals, UNICEF will enhance technical and financial support for government-led coordination structures at both national and local levels. This collaboration will focus on delivering integrated services while prioritizing social and behavior change, gender equality, accountability to affected populations, and protection against sexual exploitation and abuse.
“The scale of the intervention requires significant financial support, with UNICEF estimating a need for $36.5 million to implement critical programs in 38 high-priority districts across Zimbabwe. These programs will tackle pressing challenges in health, nutrition, water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), alongside efforts in education, social protection, and responses to gender-based violence. Additionally, the plan integrates HIV response initiatives, risk communication, and community engagement to ensure a robust and inclusive strategy.
UNICEF’s mission underscores the urgent need for global support to mitigate the devastating impact of the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
The organization’s commitment to children and families in Zimbabwe highlights the importance of coordinated action to save lives and secure a brighter future for the nation’s most vulnerable.
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