Staff Reporter
Government and the European Union (EU) have significantly strengthened their partnership to improve essential services for vulnerable communities across the nation. Through the Enhanced Resilience for Vulnerable Households in Zimbabwe (ERVHIZ) programme, over 22,500 households have gained access to clean water and improved sanitation facilities. Additionally, more than 45,000 households, including 20,000 children under five years of age, have benefited from essential nutrition services.

The ERVHIZ programme integrates agriculture, nutrition, water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) initiatives to bolster community resilience. This comprehensive approach addresses multiple facets of well-being, ensuring that households receive support in areas critical to health and development.
Minister of Health and Child Care, Dr. Douglas Mombeshora, highlighted the importance of the partnership.
“The collaboration between the European Union and Government has been crucial in improving the health of our citizens. By providing access to clean water, improved sanitation, and essential nutrition services, we are taking significant steps toward achieving sustainable development goals, especially in rural and marginalised communities,” he said
Dr. Mombeshora further emphasised the broader impact of the programme, saying, “The ERVHIZ programme not only enhances access to life-saving resources, but it also plays a pivotal role in reducing the spread of waterborne diseases, improving child health, and ensuring that vulnerable populations are well-nourished.”
The EU’s commitment to Zimbabwe is reflected in its substantial financial contributions. In 2021, the EU allocated €148 million to the Multiannual Indicative Programme (MIP) for Zimbabwe, supporting key sectors, such as governance, public health, and social infrastructure. This funding supports critical initiatives, including the ongoing water and sanitation projects under ERVHIZ.
EU Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Timo Olkkonen, commended the long-standing partnership between the EU and Zimbabwe.
“The European Union is committed to supporting Zimbabwe’s development, particularly in areas of critical need like water, sanitation, and nutrition. Through initiatives like ERVHIZ, we are ensuring that the most vulnerable populations, including children, have access to the basic services required for a healthy life,” he said
Ambassador Olkkonen also underlined the importance of collaboration for sustainable development, saying, “This partnership exemplifies how international cooperation can foster long-term improvements in the lives of everyday citizens. By addressing water, sanitation, and nutrition, we are investing in the health and resilience of Zimbabwe’s future.”
As the ERVHIZ programme expands, it is expected that even more households will benefit from these essential services, contributing to Zimbabwe’s broader health and development goals.