Zimbabwe

In 2020, Zimbabwe suffered from multiple crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic, natural disasters, and a major malaria outbreak. As with many other nations, the most vulnerable households felt the pandemic’s impact most severely: Economic hardship and lost jobs caused acute food insecurity and malnutrition, and infrastructure for clean water and sanitation deteriorated. Fears of the virus and restrictions on movement meant many people stopped visiting health clinics, leading to higher malnutrition rates and pregnancy complications. Millions of children’s education was affected, and students had to take exams without the benefit of regular class time, resulting in low pass rates. Gender-based violence increased significantly amid pandemic-related stresses. Thanks to strong partnerships, millions of vulnerable kids and families were supported to weather the year’s challenges. Families affected by natural disasters like cyclones and floods received food, hygiene kits, and child protection services while they were displaced. Health facilities, schools, and communities got access to personal protective equipment, clean water, and sanitation to help protect themselves against COVID-19. People heard messages about the pandemic to combat misinformation and take the right actions to stay healthy.