In March 2019, Cyclone Idai severely damaged resources and infrastructure, causing widespread flooding and landslides in Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwe
© Lahcène Abib
Zimbabwe is facing a major economic crisis, leading to a deterioration in the living conditions of its population. Médecins du Monde is working with local partners to strengthen sexual rights, reduce violence and improve mental health. The programme also aims to train medical staff on sexual and reproductive health and rights.
Background
To date, the extremely precarious health system, the shortage of qualified professionals, the lack of mental health care, the cholera pandemic, the high prevalence of gender-based violence, unemployment, poverty and rising inflation are all factors that continue to severely impact society.
Women and girls, in particular, face problems related to insecurity, exposure to sexual and gender-based violence, and negative coping mechanisms, including transactional sex. Zimbabwe has seen a sharp increase in protection concerns during the COVID-19 lockdown, including a significant rise in violence.
