By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
The Government of Zimbabwe has received a substantial financial boost of €4.2 million (approximately R85.6 million) from the European Union (EU) and the World Health Organization (WHO) to support the creation of a National Public Health Institute (NPHI).
The official announcement was made earlier this week through social media posts by the EU Delegation to Zimbabwe and WHO Zimbabwe on July 7 and 8, 2025.
The funding aims to support the development of Zimbabwe’s NPHI over the next four years, positioning it as a central body to lead vital public health functions and strengthen health system resilience.
WHO Zimbabwe highlighted the importance of the initiative, stating, “The NPHI will lead key public health functions & build resilient health systems. Thank you EU Delegation to Zimbabwe for your support and partnership!”
Similarly, the EU Delegation emphasized the broader regional and international cooperation aspect, noting that the project would foster collaboration between Zimbabwe, other African nations, and Europe to develop resilient, people-centered health systems.
This announcement follows closely on the heels of Zimbabwe hosting the 4th Annual Regional NPHI Meeting for Southern Africa from June 25-27, 2025, at the Harare International Conference Centre. During the event, Health Minister Dr. Douglas Mombeshora underscored the critical role of NPHIs, describing them as the “scientific backbone for evidence-based health policies and strategies.”
He expressed Zimbabwe’s political commitment to establishing the NPHI, stating, “We are all convinced that it is necessary to establish a NPHI. In Zimbabwe, we have the political will. I will be pushing for more funds to establish the Zimbabwe National Public Health Institute.”
Regional health leaders echoed this sentiment, with Africa CDC Regional Director Dr. Lul Riek warning of the continent’s vulnerability to outbreaks such as COVID-19, Marburg, and Mpox.
“Africa’s health future won’t be imported from elsewhere; it will be crafted right here, by African leaders, for African people,” she emphasized.
Dr. Talkmore Maruta of the African Society for Laboratory Medicine (ASLM) highlighted the need for increased investment, citing statistics from a 2023 Africa CDC report that 22 African countries (40%) have established NPHIs, with only 18 (33%) fully operational.
“We are not safe until everyone is safe,” he said, urging governments to prioritize health infrastructure and accountability.
The conference brought together representatives from WHO, Africa CDC, and SADC member states, focusing on strengthening disease surveillance, diagnostics, response coordination, and workforce training key components for building resilient health systems across the region.
As Zimbabwe advances its efforts to establish a robust public health framework, the new funding marks a vital step forward in safeguarding the health and security of its people and the broader Southern African region.