Staff Reporter
The Ministry of Health and Child Care, in collaboration with the Organisation for Public Health Interventions and Development (OPHID), recently held a two-day Infodemic Management Toolkit and Microplanning Validation workshop in Kadoma from September 13th to 15th.
The workshop aimed to develop strategic templates aligned with Zimbabwe’s current public health priorities to enhance the dissemination of accurate health information.
Speaking during the workshop, a Ministry of Health representative, Dr Esther Makoni, stressed the importance of this initiative, stating, “The public health sector is facing an unprecedented challenge in the form of misinformation, which can undermine the effectiveness of our interventions. This toolkit will allow us to address this issue head-on and ensure that our public health messages reach the communities accurately and effectively.”
She further added, “In the digital age, managing the flow of information is critical for our healthcare system. Accurate, timely information ensures that the public can take the necessary precautions, especially during disease outbreaks.”
OPHID’s Program Manager, Vimbai Mbirimi, emphasised OPHID’s commitment to supporting the Ministry.
“As we move forward, it’s crucial that we strengthen the ability of public health workers to navigate the complex information landscape. Our collaboration ensures that the final templates will not only address the challenges of misinformation but also be adaptable to various health priorities, from disease outbreaks to immunisation campaigns.
“This toolkit will be essential in ensuring that healthcare workers across the country, both in urban and rural settings, are equipped to fight misinformation and better serve their communities,” she added.
The workshop also included experts in epidemiology, health communications, and public health planning who are working on developing robust guidelines that will inform future public health campaigns.
Meanwhile, the toolkit will serve as a key resource in responding to health crises and in routine healthcare delivery.
The final outputs from the workshop are expected to improve how public health information is disseminated, ensuring that Zimbabwe’s healthcare interventions are strategic, effective, and in line with the country’s health priorities for 2024 and beyond.
