Research

Upenyu is engaging in a high impact research study in collaboration with the National Institute of Health Research. We are evaluating the proposed national schistosomiasis control program.

Analyzing urine samples for haematuria, or blood in urine

Disease Control

Upenyu aims to improve the condition of children in Zimbabwe through innovative treatment strategies for schistosomiasis. We provide treatment for children in Mutoko district, where prevalence is very high.

Matron Tsiga at her station during treatment of children

Our Model

The burden of schistosomiasis in Zimbabwe is high - up to 90% of children are afflicted in some areas. Upenyu is partnering with the Ministry of Health as an implementing partner to treat children in Mutoko District.

Nicholas Midzi explaining how to measure children to administer proper dose of praziquantel

In This Section

Overview of Our Work

Our work in Zimbabwe addresses two problems particularly harmful to children -- schistosomiasis and acute malnutrition.


Schistosomiasis is a parasitic worm infection that causes, in up to 80% of children living in Nyadire, tremendous organ damage, fatigue, and internal bleeding.


We operate a control program out of Nyadire Hospital that treats children in the area for the disease.


Malnutrition is a life-threatening condition, particularly among children positive for HIV. We are supporting the extention of a community care mechanism that finds and treats such sick children with great efficacy.