UNDP, Global Fund handover US$4 Million Vehicle Fleet for Strengthening Zimbabwe’s Health System

August 6, 2024

Two photos of an array of white vehicles and two men cutting ribbon on cars — (Left) Some of the 136 vehicle fleet handed to the Ministry of Health and Child Care to improve health outcomes, especially in remote areas. (Right) UNDP Resident Representative, Dr. Ayodele Odusola (l) and Minister of Health and Child Care, Dr. Douglas Mombeshora (holding scissors) officially unveil the 136 vehicle fleet

UNDP Zimbabwe/Anesu Freddy

In a significant boost to Zimbabwe’s health sector, UNDP Zimbabwe officially handed over 136 vehicles to the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC) in a ceremony held on Friday, August 2, 2024. The event, attended by Hon. Minister Dr. Douglas Mombeshora, CEO of the National AIDS Council Dr. Bernard Madzima, and other distinguished guests, marked a milestone in strengthening the country’s healthcare system.

Valued at US $4 million, the vehicles were procured with savings from efficiency gains of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, TB, and Malaria (Global Fund) GC6 HIV grant. These vehicles are intended to support the implementation of critical health programmes including HIV, TB, and Malaria, and will significantly enhance programme implementation and healthcare service delivery, particularly in hard-to-reach communities.

The allocation of these vehicles demonstrates the robust collaboration between UNDP, MoHCC, the National AIDS Council, and other key stakeholders. This partnership underscores a shared commitment to improving health outcomes and ensuring that essential health services reach all corners of Zimbabwe.

Three photo collage of cars, and of the the Minsiter of Health and UNDP Zimbabwe Resident Representative — (left and right) Part of the 136 vehicle fleet, valued at over $4 million. (middle) Minister of Health and Child Care, Dr. Douglas Mombeshora (l) and UNDP Resident Representative, Dr. Ayodele Odusola (r) at the vehicle handover ceremony

UNDP Zimbabwe/Joyous Begisen

To ensure the long-term impact of this investment, the UNDP and Global Fund have committed to supporting fuel, service, and insurance costs for these vehicles from 2024 to 2026.

UNDP emphasized the importance of proper asset management, accountability, and security measures for the vehicles. Moving forward, UNDP will work closely with MoHCC and NAC to develop comprehensive fleet management plans and explore sustainable solutions beyond 2026, reinforcing UNDP’s commitment to building a resilient and equitable health system in Zimbabwe.

To date, the Global Fund has invested approximately US$2.8 billion in the public health sector in Zimbabwe since 2003.