In April 2021, Daiichi Sankyo launched an initiative to raise awareness and strengthen healthcare services related to sexual reproductive health and rights (SRHR) and breast and cervical cancers in Zimbabwe in collaboration with Plan International, an international NGO, an international NGO, and completed the initiative in March 2024.
In Zimbabwe, cervical and breast cancers are the leading causes of cancer deaths among women. However, the public’s knowledge of cancer and its symptoms is limited, and the screening system for early detection is not well established. In a society where women’s sexual and reproductive rights are neglected, there is a constellation of issues related to women’s human rights, such as premature pregnancy, an increase in sexually transmitted diseases, such as HIV, and a lack of understanding about women receiving medical examinations and healthcare services.
With the aim of improving the knowledge of breast and cervical cancers and SRHR and creating an environment where women can easily access healthcare services, this project has (1) Built the capacity of healthcare professionals on breast and cervical cancers and SRHR, (2) Raised awareness of SRHR, gender equality, and cervical and breast cancers among local residents, and (3) Advocated to local governments for improving healthcare services related to these cancer screenings and SRHR.
In December 2023, we visited local Plan International Zimbabwe offices, government agencies, medical institutions, schools, and other organizations involved in this project, and expressed our gratitude for the activities and results achieved to date. We also communicated with children and parents who participated in this project and deepened our friendships with them.
Through the activities of this project, we are contributing to the achievement of Goal 3 “ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages” and Goal 5 “achieve gender equality” of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Presenting a letter of appreciation to local clinic staff
Interacting with children who participated in the project
Project overview:
- Region: Masvingo Province in southeastern Zimbabwe
- Objectives: Improving knowledge about breast and cervical cancers and SRHR and strengthening the foundation of healthcare services
- Duration: 3 years (April 2021 to March 2024)
- Collaborative partner: Plan International*
*Plan International is an international NGO that works in more than 70 countries to promote children’s rights and achieve a society free from poverty and discrimination. https://www.plan-international.jp/
As a pharmaceutical company with the purpose, to “contribute to the enrichment of quality of life around the world,” the Daiichi Sankyo Group is committed to resolving healthcare access issues in regions with weak healthcare infrastructure.
Project Summary and KPIs