Reflecting on Zimbabwe’s Frontline FETP Journey: From Launch to Impact

Having been intricately involved in the inception of Zimbabwe’s Frontline Field Epidemiology Training Program (FETP) in 2024, witnessing the progress made over the past year fills me with immense pride. Steering the first cohort through challenges to achieve a commendable 95% pass rate has been both demanding and fulfilling, signaling the promising trajectory of the program.

Beyond mere training, FETP stands as a cornerstone of our national health security framework. Equipping frontline personnel with hands-on expertise in outbreak probing, surveillance, and data interpretation is instrumental in fortifying a proficient workforce capable of prompt and efficient responses to public health crises.

The recent triumph of Cohort 2, boasting a flawless 100% success rate and impactful investigations into maternal health and zoonotic ailments, underscores the program’s transformative influence. These frontline champions now not only tackle immediate threats but also contribute significantly to Zimbabwe’s overarching objectives of curbing maternal mortality and preempting disease outbreaks.

This expedition underscores the significance of collaborations—between MoHCC, CDC, AFENET, mentors, and the unwavering health professionals dedicated to shielding our communities. Anticipating the continuation of this positive momentum, expanding the program, and nurturing the forthcoming cohort of epidemiologists.

Collectively, we are sculpting a more resilient, well-prepared Zimbabwe, enriching one trained frontline responder at a time.