The project, implemented by HLPC and IYWD, used a three-pronged strategy of legal empowerment and advocacy, health systems strengthening, and community mobilisation across Epworth, Chimanimani, and Mutare. Women and girls in these areas faced intersecting vulnerabilities including poverty, gender-based violence, and institutional discrimination, which increased risks of unsafe abortion. Through safe space dialogues, door-to-door outreach, and group sessions, more than 10,000 women and girls were reached with information on abortion rights under the Termination of Pregnancy Act, post-abortion care, and broader health entitlements. Psychosocial support and referral guidance enabled 87 women to access safe abortion or post-abortion care services, demonstrating the success of the referral and accompaniment model.

Capacity-building for health professionals was central to reducing stigma and improving care. Fifty-four nurses, midwives, and clinical officers were trained on ethical service delivery, informed consent, confidentiality, and clinical management of abortion and post-abortion care. Feedback showed stronger knowledge of legal frameworks and protocols, contributing to rights-based, non-discriminatory service provision. At the same time, HLPC conducted legal literacy sessions with community leaders, women’s groups, and SRHR activists, equipping them with tools to demand accountability and defend women’s rights. Legal aid and paralegal support were also extended to women facing criminalisation or legal threats for abortion.

At the policy level, HLPC and IYWD engaged lawmakers through five closed-door briefings with Members of Parliament, advocating for reform of the Termination of Pregnancy Act and expanded legal grounds in line with human rights standards. Policymakers were presented with data, case studies, and legal analyses to frame abortion as a public health and rights issue. Additionally, 12 journalists and editors were trained on ethical reporting and rights-based language, resulting in media outputs that helped challenge stigma and misinformation. Overall, the project expanded awareness, strengthened service delivery, and fostered a more receptive policy environment for SRHR in Zimbabwe, with future plans to deepen rural outreach, document lived experiences for litigation, and engage traditional and religious leaders.