Zimbabwe

The Problem

  • Poor nutrition is a widespread problem throughout Zimbabwe.
  • Child mortality rates in Zimbabwe are high due in part to vitamin A deficiency. There is an urgent need to provide vitamin A supplementation and improve communication and social mobilization activities.

What HKI Is Doing

Helen Keller International established its presence in Zimbabwe in May, 2005. Current programs include:

Vitamin A Supplementation
Helen Keller International works to reduce under-five mortality in Zimbabwe by promoting sustained high-coverage vitamin A supplementation (VAS). National guidelines for vitamin A supplementation were formulated in 2001. In 2002, distribution of vitamin A capsules was integrated into the national immunization day (NIDs) for measles with 78% coverage achieved. In 2005, HKI helped establish Child Health Days to ensure distribution of vitamin A capsules, vaccines and bed nets (for malaria prevention). Last year, the program attained 91% coverage, reaching almost 1.6 million children 6-59 months of age.

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Food Fortification
HKI has been a member of the Food Fortification Task Force in Zimbabwe which helps set standards and create partnerships. HKI is also a member of the Nutrition Cluster, a forum to discuss current and emerging issues in nutrition and to ensure close collaboration and networking among members.

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