By Khulumani Sithole.
In a significant development, the Harare Institute of Public Health (HIPH) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Pamumvuri to strengthen evidence-based programing for mental health interventions in Zimbabwe.
The partnership thrives to link research and practice in the mental health space, aligning with the country’s efforts to improve public health. The partnership aims to connect research and practical application in the field of mental health, in line with the nation’s endeavors to enhance public health.
Addressing Journalist at the conference, the Principal of the Harare Institute of Public Health said “the partnership will focus on collaborative research initiatives, capacity building, and knowledge sharing to enhance access to mental health services in Zimbabwe”
He further reiterated that more research is required in terms of coining our application of our language in the mental health field. He sighted that in English language there is more vocabulary to describe mental health which reduces stigma of persons affected with mental health.
You hear English terms such as bi-polar, schizophrenia, stress but in Zimbabwe one term is used to describe murwere wepfungwa/ anorwara nepfunga, it is such terms that contributes to stigmatization hence the need to invest in this research initiative,” said Dr Marume
The partnership will enable HIPH and Pamumvuri to conduct joint research projects, leveraging each other’s expertise to address mental health challenges. Furthermore, it will facilitate the development of evidence-based policies and programs, ensuring that interventions are informed by robust research findings.
Speaking at the same event, Executive Director of Pamumvuri Mr. Tapiwa Chinyadza opined that Capacity building is a critical component of the partnership, to provide training and mentorship opportunities for mental health professionals.
“This will enhance the skills and knowledge of healthcare workers, enabling them to provide high-quality services to patients”.
with a particular emphasis on promoting community-based care, Chinyadza SAID “HIPH and Pamumvuri will work together to develop and implement innovative programs that address the mental health needs of vulnerable populations, including children, adolescents, and marginalized communities”.
“By combining our expertise and resources, HIPH and Pamumvuri will impact positively on the mental health landscape in Zimbabwe.
Mr. Retlaw Matorwa, the Project Coordinator for the Harare Institute of Public Health said his organization is impressed with this development. “We are thrilled to partner with Pamumvuri, an organization that shares our commitment to improving public health in Zimbabwe. This collaboration will enable us to make a meaningful impact on mental health services in the country, and we look forward to achieving great things together.” – Said Matorwa
