Zimbabwe Assistance Program in Malaria: Quarterly Report, Year 5, Quarter 1, October–December 2019

The program is implemented by Abt Associates in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC) and the President's Malaria Initiative (PMI). The program aims to reduce malaria morbidity and mortality in Zimbabwe through a comprehensive approach that includes case management, long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) distribution, social and behavioral change communication, and monitoring and evaluation. Case management is a critical component of the program, and several activities were undertaken during the quarter. A case management subcommittee meeting was held, and the findings of the 2019 case management audit were presented. The audit revealed several challenges, including inadequate training of health workers and insufficient supervision. A therapeutic efficacy study was also conducted, which showed that the efficacy of the malaria treatment regimen was within the acceptable range. The mid-term review of the malaria strategic plan, 2016-2020, was also conducted, and it highlighted the need for improved case management practices. The distribution of LLINs was another key activity during the quarter. The program delivered LLINs to health facilities in all 10 districts, and the nets were distributed to beneficiaries through various channels, including health facilities, community health workers, and mobile teams. The program also conducted training for village health workers (VHWs) on the distribution of LLINs, and a vector control subcommittee meeting was held to discuss issues related to LLIN distribution and implementation. Social and behavioral change communication (SBCC) is an essential component of the program, and several activities were undertaken during the quarter. The program created demand for LLINs through radio spots and print materials, and the Shona version of the "My Net My Life" leaflet was developed and disseminated. The program also conducted a SBCC subcommittee meeting and community SBCC activities to promote the use of LLINs and other malaria prevention measures. Monitoring and evaluation (M&E) is a critical component of the program, and several activities were undertaken during the quarter. The program conducted an assessment of drivers of continuing malaria transmission in Angwa Ward, Mbire District, and developed epidemic preparedness and response guidelines. The program also conducted a net durability study and a mid-term review of the malaria strategic plan, 2016-2020. The program also addressed gender and environmental compliance issues during the quarter. The program conducted a gender analysis and developed a gender action plan, and it also ensured compliance with environmental regulations, including the management of medical waste and public health medicines and commodities. The program faced several challenges during the quarter, including inadequate funding, insufficient resources, and logistical challenges. However, the program also made several recommendations to address these challenges, including the need for increased funding, improved resource allocation, and enhanced logistical support. The program's performance is measured against several indicators, including the number of LLINs delivered, the number of beneficiaries reached, and the level of malaria morbidity and mortality. The program's progress is monitored through regular meetings and reports, and the program's performance is evaluated against the program's objectives and targets. Overall, the Zimbabwe Assistance Program in Malaria made significant progress during the quarter, and the program's activities and achievements are summarized in the following tables and figures. The program's performance is satisfactory, and the program is on track to achieve its objectives and targets. However, the program faces several challenges, and the program's recommendations and action plans are essential to address these challenges and ensure the program's success.