WE, in the village, hold certain people very important because of the skills set they possess.
Among these people are midwives, mbuya nyamukuta, is a very important person.
On May 5 and May 12 we celebrated the International Day of the Nurse and the Midwife.
In the development agenda, certain threads stand out not merely for their strength but for their indispensability.
Nurses and midwives are the threads helping hold our society together.
Their roles, often taken for granted, are foundational to the health and well-being of communities.
As we reflect on our progress and envision a brighter future, it is imperative to celebrate and recognise the critical contributions of nurses and midwives to development.
Nurses and midwives are the unsung heroes of the healthcare system.
They are the first point of contact for patients and often the ones who spend the most time with them. Their roles go far beyond administering medications and performing procedures; they provide comfort, educate patients about health management and offer emotional support during vulnerable times.

They are instrumental in providing care before, during and after childbirth.
Midwives support women through one of the most critical phases of their lives, ensuring safe deliveries and offering post-partum care that promotes the health of both mother and child.

Midwives are often the primary caregivers, making their role even more vital.
The impact of nurses and midwives ex-tends far beyond individual patient care.
They are pivotal to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to health and well-being. Good health is a cornerstone of sustainable development and without a robust healthcare workforce, achieving these goals would be impossible.

One of the most direct impacts of nurses and midwives is seen in the reduction of maternal and child mortality. According to the World Health Organisation
(WHO), skilled care during childbirth pre-vents most maternal and newborn deaths.
Midwives, with their specialised training, are key to providing this skilled care.
They ensure that women receive proper prenatal care, safe delivery practices and at the forefront of this effort.
They educate patients about managing their health, understanding their con-ditions and making informed decisions about their care.
In communities, they lead health edu-cation initiatives that promote hygiene, nutrition and preventive health measures, contributing to healthier populations.
One of the most admirable aspects of the work done by nurses and midwives is their commitment to serving marginalised and underserved populations. In remote and rural areas where healthcare facilities are scarce, nurses and midwives are often the only healthcare providers available.
They travel great distances, sometimes under challenging conditions, to ensure that everyone has access to essential healthcare services.
Their presence in these communities not only improves health outcomes but also builds trust and fosters a sense of security.
People are more likely to seek care and follow medical advice when they know that compassionate and competent professionals are available to help them. By addressing health inequities, nurses and professions themselves have created employment opportunities and stimulated economic activity.
Investment in nursing and midwife-ry education and training has not only enhanced healthcare delivery but also provided individuals with stable and re-warding careers.
As we celebrate the contributions of nurses and midwives, we must acknowledge that their work is not just a job, but a calling driven by a deep-seated desire to make a difference.
Nurses and midwives are indeed pillars of health and development. Their contributions resonate across every aspect of society, from individual well-being to national progress. As we look to the future, let us honour and support these healthcare professionals who play such a critical role in building healthier, more equitable and prosperous communities. By investing in and empowering nurses and midwives, we invest in a brighter, healthier future for all.
Businessman Tawanda Chenana is also a philanthropist and ZANU PF Secretary for Education for Mashonaland East Province