Every year, countless young girls aged 10 to 24 in Mutare face the enormous challenge of pregnancy. Instead of receiving the critical support they need, many find themselves barred from accessing essential prenatal services due to burdensome pregnancy registration and guard fees at Mutare City Health Clinics. As a result, these young individuals are forced to resort to home deliveries, significantly increasing the mortality rate among young mothers and their newborns. This situation is heartbreaking and untenable.

Mutare's young population is grappling with immense pressures. Beyond the physical and emotional demands of pregnancy, they are confronted with financial barriers that prevent them from accessing healthcare. Data from the World Health Organization highlights that Zimbabwe, like many sub-Saharan African countries, faces high maternal mortality rates, with young mothers being especially vulnerable. In such circumstances, removing these financial obstacles at Mutare City Health Clinics is not just a compassionate policy; it is a necessity to save lives.

A comprehensive study published by UNICEF emphasizes that barriers to healthcare not only jeopardize the lives of mothers and children but also strain the entire healthcare system, leading to long-term socio-economic challenges. By abolishing pregnancy registration and guard fees at Mutare's clinics, we can ensure that young mothers receive the care they desperately need, minimizing the risk of complications and drastically reducing preventable deaths.

This change will also promote greater utilization of available health services, ensuring healthier outcomes for both mothers and infants. It will encourage trust in public health systems, leading to broader health benefits within the community.

We urge the responsible authorities, including the Mutare City Health Department and local government leaders, to take swift action. Removing these fees will not only align with healthcare best practices but will demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding the lives and futures of young people in Mutare.

Sign this petition to call for the elimination of pregnancy registration and guard fees at Mutare City Health Clinics. Let's work together to ensure that no child or young mother has to risk their life due to preventable financial barriers to healthcare. Join us in making a difference in the lives of countless young people, ensuring they have safe pregnancies and healthy futures.