Zimbabwe's First Bereavement Suite: A haven for gr...

Zimbabwe's First Bereavement Suite: A haven for grieving Mothers at Parirenyatwa Hospital

Patricia Mashiri

Zim Now Writer

In a groundbreaking initiative, Someone Always Listens to You, a pioneering mental health organization, with support from Germany Shepherd Zimbabwe, has unveiled Zimbabwe's first-ever bereavement suite and transitional room at the Mbuya Nehanda Maternity Wing, Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals. This facility provides a compassionate space for mothers and families coping with the loss of a baby during pregnancy or shortly after birth.

Speaking during the handover ceremony, Acting Clinical Director of Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, Dr Maxmillan Dzowa described the facility as a milestone for Zimbabwe and Southern Africa.

“Today, we mark the official handover of a bereavement suite and transitional ward at Parirenyatwa Maternity Hospital—an initiative that will bring much-needed support to grieving parents during one of the most devastating moments of their lives. This facility, the first of its kind in Southern Africa and among the few in Africa, reflects the relentless dedication of S.A.L.T Africa to maternal mental health and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health challenges,” said Dr. Dzowa.

The project, made possible by the Zimbabwe German Society, offers a dignified and supportive environment for bereaved parents. Dr. Dzowa also highlighted alarming statistics, noting that 1 in 4 women in Zimbabwe may face mental health issues linked to pregnancy and childbirth, yet mental health services remain underdeveloped.

Tafadzwa Meki, Director of S.A.L.T Africa, emphasised the significance of the space:

“It’s more than just a physical room; it’s a sanctuary where grieving families can process their loss, remember their loved ones, and begin the healing journey. Imagine being in a maternity ward surrounded by mothers celebrating healthy deliveries while you’re grappling with devastating loss. Such isolation underscores the need for spaces that respect both joy and sorrow.”

The initiative has already made an impact. Gamuchirai Goredema, 30, who lost her baby, shared how the support she received transformed her healing process:

“When you lose a baby, it’s hard to face the world, especially mothers with their children. Comments from others in the ward can be unbearable. Some would say, ‘I can’t leave my baby near her; what if she takes it?’ This suite gave me a safe space to grieve and regain my strength. I’m grateful to S.A.L.T Africa for their support.”

The World Health Organisation reports that 10–20% of women experience maternal mental health conditions during pregnancy or within the first year postpartum, yet this critical area often goes unnoticed.

This initiative not only provides solace to grieving families but also raises awareness about the urgent need for maternal mental health services in Zimbabwe and beyond.