EXCLUSIVE breastfeeding of children in the country has improved since 2020 when it was less than 50 percent to about 80 percent this year, a Zimbabwe Vulnerability Assessment Committee (ZIMVAC) 2023 Urban Livelihoods Assessment Report notes.
By Kuda Pembere
The 10th annual ZIMVAC Urban Livelihoods Assessment Report was presented before the Cabinet by Vice President and Minister of Health and Child Care, Gen. (Rtd) Dr Constantino Chiwenga who is the Chairperson of the Cabinet Committee on Food Security and Nutrition.
Pertaining to Child Nutrition, a cocktail of strategies and measures being implemented by Government, particularly from the Ministry of Health and Child Care has seen an improvement in exclusive breastfeeding practices. The proportion of children exclusively breast fed increased from 49.3% in 2020 to 78.4% in 2023,” said Information, Media and Broadcasting Services Minister Senator Monica Mutsvangwa said in a post cabinet media briefing on Tuesday.
“The Government also surpassed the 90% target for Vitamin A supplementation of children of 6 to 11 months of age.”
The objective of the assessment was to guide evidence-based planning and programming for targeted interventions; develop solutions that address immediate to long-term needs as well as build resilient livelihoods.
“Regarding social protection, there was evidence that Zimbabwe’s economic growth trajectory benefited the majority of households.
“About 17.7% of the households received support from relatives, while 16.7% got institutional assistance.
“Government improved the economic environment that has seen average incomes continue on a positive growth from an average of Z$ 15 805 in 2020 to Z$ 189 304 in February 2023.
“The assessment found a positive trend in the economy as 50% of households were able to reduce their debt burden.
“Nationally, 21% of the households had outstanding debts, a reduction from 45% found in 2020.
