By Michael Gwarisa
In a groundbreaking effort to provide mental health support and comfort to parents grieving the loss of a child at birth, a local mental health organization, Someone Always Listens To You (S.A.L.T), has refurbished and established a grieving room at the Mbuya Nehanda Maternity Wing of Parirenyatwa Hospital.
According to Zimbabwean mental health statistics, one in four women may experience mental health challenges related to pregnancy and childbirth. Despite this, mental health services in the country remain severely underdeveloped.
Officiating at the handover event for the bereavement suite and transition ward, Dr. Maxmillan Dzowa, Acting Clinical Director of the Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, described the initiative by S.A.L.T as a milestone for Zimbabwe, Southern Africa, and the African continent.
Today marks the official handover of the bereavement suite and transition ward at Parirenyatwa Maternity Hospital, a pioneering initiative that will bring much-needed support to bereaved parents during one of the most heart-wrenching experiences of their lives,” said Dr. Dzowa.
“This facility, the first of its kind in Southern Africa and among the very few in all of Africa, is a testament to the tireless efforts of S.A.L.T Africa, a mental health organization focused on maternal mental health and eradicating stigma around mental health challenges. This was made possible through the support of the Zimbabwe German Society. Through their unwavering commitment, this project has not only provided a space of dignity for grieving parents but has also opened a new chapter in addressing maternal mental health needs in our region.”
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), maternal mental health issues affect 10-20% of women during pregnancy or within the first year after childbirth. In Africa, these challenges are often worsened by inadequate resources, cultural stigma, and a lack of support systems, leaving many women to suffer in silence. Zimbabwe, like many parts of Southern Africa, has a critical need for comprehensive maternal mental health services.
“Through this collaboration, we are taking an important step toward changing that narrative and improving the overall health and well-being of mothers and families,” added Dr. Dzowa.
“This initiative would not have been possible without the support of key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Health and Child Care, the leadership at Parirenyatwa Maternity Hospital, and the tireless efforts of mental health professionals, healthcare workers, and community members involved in this project. It is a collective effort signaling a transformation in maternal care.”
S.A.L.T Director Tafadzwa Meki highlighted the critical purpose of the bereavement suite, describing it as a dedicated space for families navigating the devastating loss of a baby during pregnancy or shortly after birth.
“This room is more than just a physical space; it is a sanctuary where families can grieve, remember, and begin the healing process in a compassionate environment. Here, they can find solace in knowing they are not alone in their sorrow,” said Meki.
She added that the transition ward was equally essential, serving as the first form of postnatal care for women who have experienced adverse pregnancy or birth outcomes. The ward provides a supportive environment where mothers can receive the compassion and medical attention they need during this vulnerable time.
“Is this a million-dollar project? No, but its impact will resonate far beyond financial measures. It will touch the lives of countless families across Zimbabwe, fostering an environment where maternal mental health is recognized and prioritized,” added Meki.
The project was financed by the Zimbabwe German Society.
Losing a child during pregnancy or shortly after birth is one of the most devastating experiences a parent can face. For mothers, the grief is often compounded by biological, psychological, and social factors. Studies show that bereaved mothers are at increased risk of developing mental health conditions, such as postpartum depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Feelings of guilt, shame, and isolation are common, especially in societies where conversations around pregnancy loss are taboo. Without adequate support systems, many women suffer in silence, unable to process their grief or access the care they need.
