Ministry of Health engagement in Kadoma advances adolescent health policy development

On 31 March–1 April 2026, SOFAR Zimbabwe Principal Investigator, Constance Mackworth-Young, participated in a high-level meeting in Kadoma organised by the Zimbabwe Ministry of Health and Child Care as part of the development of the National Adolescent Health and Wellbeing Implementation Plan.

Together with BRTI colleague Farirai Nzvere, she presented findings from the EMPOWA, Y-Check, and CHIEDZA studies to approximately 60 adolescent health focal points representing six national ministries. The presentation ensured that evidence from recent adolescent health research informed ongoing discussions and priorities for the national implementation plan.

In addition to presenting findings, Constance contributed to the drafting of sections of the National Implementation Plan, supporting the integration of research evidence into the policy framework.

This engagement reflects ongoing collaboration between researchers and government stakeholders to strengthen the use of context-specific evidence in national policy processes. It also aligns with efforts to ensure adolescent health programming is informed by the lived experiences and priorities of young people.

Importantly, the development of the plan signals a broader shift towards a more holistic approach to adolescent wellbeing, moving beyond a sole focus on sexual and reproductive health.