By Donald Dube
Newly appointed Board Members of the Zimbabwe National Family Planning Council (ZNFPC) conducted an extensive familiarization visit and tour of the organization’s facilities, gaining first-hand insight into its operations and service delivery systems. The tour was held from 22 – 23 January 2026 at Head-office, Spilhaus clinic, Fife Avenue clinic and Youth Centre. Visits were also undertaken at conference facilities, audio-visual studios, and other operational areas to appreciate and familiarize with the organization mandated to provide quality integrated Family Planning and Sexual Reproductive health services across the country.
ZNFPC Chief Executive Officer, Mr Farai Machinga reiterated that, “It is with heartfelt gratitude that the organization welcomes the new Board Members to guide and provide a strategic leadership for improved health service provision. The familiarization visit lays a strong foundation for informed governance and strategic decision-making as the new Board begins its tenure.” Board Members engaged with Directors and management first before meeting with all staff. The day commenced with self-introductions as a meet and greet session got participants to know each other, department assigned and key result areas. After introductions, presentations were delivered on the overview of ZNFPC, organizational structure, core functions and programme activities.
In her remarks the Family Planning Board Chairperson, Colonel Dr Lioba Tendai Gunduza expressed the board’s expectations. “ZNFPC is built and sustained on quality service delivery, strengthening partnerships, innovative resource mobilization, digital health interventions, professionalism, transparency and accountability, ensuring that together we leave no one and no place behind” remarked the Board Chairperson. The delegation toured the clinic and youth centre. At the clinic, Board Members were briefed on the range of Family Planning (FP) and Reproductive Health (RH) services offered to clients, HIV Testing Services, Cancers of the reproductive system as well as ongoing efforts to continuously improve access, quality, and client experience. The youth centre showcased programmes tailored to young people, focusing on life skills, Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE), Parent-Child Communication (PCC), health education, menstrual health management and entrepreneurship skills designed to empower adolescents and young people.
The tour also included the organization’s catering, accommodation and conference facilities, which play a critical role in hosting trainings, stakeholder engagements and policy dialogues. Board Members expressed appreciation for the audio-visual studios, noting its importance in information dissemination, advocacy and health education on Family Planning, reproductive health and youth-friendly issues. Speaking after the tour, the Family Planning Vice-Board Chairperson, Mr Saul Chin’anga said, “The Board Members reaffirm their commitment to supporting ZNFPC in strengthening service delivery, enhancing youth programmes and advancing innovative research and communication approaches.”
In addition to appreciating the facilities and infrastructure, Board Members met and interacted with ZNFPC staff, who shared insights into their roles, achievements and challenges. The engagement provided an opportunity for open dialogue, allowing staff to highlight areas requiring strategic support and investment. The session provided staff members a chance to freely express themselves highlighting their concerns regarding staff welfare. Speaking during the visit, ZNFPC Director Technical Services, Ms Mercy Marimirofa said, “The tour was an important step in aligning the new Board with the organization’s vision, operations, and strategic priorities.”