UNFPA and WFP Sign MOU to Boost Food Security and Health Services in Zimbabwe

UNFPA Representative Miranda Tabifor (left) shakes hands with WFP Representative Barbara Clemens (image source)

Reporter

In a significant move to enhance food security, health and nutrition support in Zimbabwe, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the World Food Programme (WFP) have recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in Harare. This partnership aims to address the intertwined needs of the population by integrating sexual and reproductive health services with food assistance initiatives. Speaking during the signing ceremony, UNFPA Representative Ms. Miranda Tabifor said the agency is committed to ensuring that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person’s potential is fulfilled.

“We recognise that these goals cannot be achieved in isolation. This partnership with WFP, as the UN’s frontline agency in the fight against hunger and malnutrition, allows us to leverage our respective strengths and expertise for greater impact,” she said.

She said the collaboration will specifically target women and young people, utilising WFP's existing food distribution platforms to reach a broader audience with essential services and information. “By targeting the same beneficiaries, we can reach more people with the services they need.” This partnership builds on a history of collaboration between the two organisations, including a 2016 agreement for providing food to pregnant women in Maternity Waiting Homes and logistical support during crises such as Cyclone Idai and the COVID-19 pandemic. Recently, integrated services were provided during food distribution in Buhera, where UNFPA’s implementing partner, the Zimbabwe National Family Planning Council, offered outreach family planning services.

Through this agreement, UNFPA will enhance maternal, newborn, family planning, HIV, and gender-based violence services in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Child Care. They will also train food distribution stakeholders in Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) and gender-based violence risk mitigation. WFP Zimbabwe Representative Barbara Clemens highlighted the importance of this collaboration. “WFP and UNFPA are coming together to deliver integrated responses, linking food security with sexual and reproductive health, nutrition with protection, and dignity with empowerment.” She said this partnership means that when women and adolescent girls visit food distribution sites, they can also access vital information on family planning and available services.Both organisations reaffirmed their commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 2 on Zero Hunger, Goal 3 on Good Health and Wellbeing, and Goal 5 on Gender Equality. By joining forces, UNFPA and WFP are dedicated to reducing duplication, improving efficiency, and harnessing their strengths to support the Government of Zimbabwe in addressing these critical issues.