St John Zimbabwe implements the Mother and Baby Programme in collaboration with the St John International Office and the Ministry of Health and Child Care. The programme forms part of a wider initiative operating across selected countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, aimed at reducing preventable deaths among mothers and newborns during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postnatal period.
In Zimbabwe, the programme is based in Mt Hampden, Zvimba District, where St John Zimbabwe works directly with local health authorities and communities to improve access to maternal and newborn health information and services. Since its introduction in 201, the programme has established a community outreach clinic that serves surrounding areas, bringing essential maternal health education and support closer to families.
Outreach Clinic
The Outreach Clinic in Mt Hampden is a key part of St John Zimbabwe Mother and Baby Programme. It addresses the ongoing challenge of preventable maternal and newborn deaths by supporting early awareness, education, and community-level engagement.
Many maternal and newborn deaths in the region are linked to preventable causes such as infections, complications during pregnancy or delivery, poor hygiene, and limited access to timely healthcare. These risks can be significantly reduced through simple, cost-effective interventions when expectant and new mothers receive appropriate care and information at the right time.
Through the Outreach Clinic, St John Zimbabwe provides maternal health education and guidance to both mothers and fathers, helping families make informed decisions and encouraging safer pregnancies and healthier early childhood outcomes.
The programme continues to serve surrounding communities, with plans to expand its reach to additional areas in the future.
