The Health Cluster under the National Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (NANGO) brings together civil society organisations in Zimbabwe working to improve health outcomes and strengthen community resilience. Within Zimbabwe’s current context—characterised by economic pressures, constrained public health resources, and evolving disease burdens—the cluster plays a critical role in coordinating NGO-led health interventions and supporting community-based responses.
Zimbabwe continues to face a dual burden of disease, with ongoing priorities such as HIV prevention, treatment, and care, alongside a growing rise in Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) including hypertension, diabetes, and cancer. In addition, the health sector remains vulnerable to public health emergencies, as highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as periodic outbreaks of other infectious diseases.
In response, the Health Cluster provides a collaborative platform for NGOs and health-focused organisations to strengthen coordination, share knowledge, and implement evidence-based, high-impact health programmes. Key focus areas include:
The cluster prioritises inclusive and equitable healthcare access, ensuring that interventions respond to the needs of vulnerable and at-risk populations. These include women, children, orphans and vulnerable children (OVCs), persons with disabilities, and key populations such as sex workers. A holistic and integrated approach is adopted, linking health services with psychosocial support, human rights, education, and economic empowerment.
In line with best practice, the Health Cluster promotes evidence-based programming and community-driven interventions, encouraging member organisations to conduct needs assessments and data-informed planning. This ensures that programmes are relevant, sustainable, and responsive to local realities.
The cluster also plays a vital advocacy role in Zimbabwe’s health sector, engaging policymakers and stakeholders to promote increased investment in healthcare, stronger health systems, and inclusive health policies.
Through strengthened coordination, capacity building, and strategic advocacy, the Health Cluster contributes to building a resilient, inclusive, and equitable health system in Zimbabwe, advancing the broader goal of sustainable development and improved quality of life for all.