Speaking after receiving two medical ultra-sound scanners from the Korean Embassy, Madzorera said the donation will see the reduction of maternal mortality as the scanners would make early intervention possible.
“At the moment, we are fighting maternal mortality which is extremely high in Zimbabwe and I know ultrasound scanners are important in maternity care, in diagnosing maternal conditions and every pregnant woman will be scanned for early interventions,” said Madzorera.
An ultrasound scanner is a portable ultrasound machine used to diagnose ailments linked to; and associated with cardiovascular diseases, obstetrics and gynaecology.
Republic of Korea Ambassador to Zimbabwe Lew Kwang-chul said the donation was the beginning of cooperation between his country and Zimbabwe in the field of health.
According to United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the maternal mortality ratio (MMR) in Zimbabwe has worsened significantly over the past 20 years, with eight women dying each day while giving birth.
This translates to a maternal mortality ratio of 725 deaths per 100 000 live births, according to the Zimbabwe Maternal and Prenatal Mortality Study. This is much higher than the Millennium Development Goal (MDG) target for MMR for Zimbabwe which is 174 per 100 000 live births.
The proportion of births attended by skilled health personnel has fallen over the past 20 years.