Assignment Activity Unit 7

The Intricate Relationship Between Culture and Health in Rural Zimbabwe

Introduction
Growing up in rural Zimbabwe, I experienced firsthand the profound influence of culture on health and
healthcare practices. The rich tapestry of Zimbabwean culture, deeply rooted in traditions, beliefs, and
community values, shapes how individuals perceive health, illness, and healing. As a healthcare professional
at a community health center, understanding these cultural nuances is essential for providing effective care.
This report explores how culture influences health beliefs and behaviors, identifies specific cultural beliefs
prevalent in the community, and suggests strategies for delivering culturally competent care.
The Role of Culture in Influencing Health-Related Behaviors
Culture plays a critical role in shaping health-related behaviors and the likelihood of seeking medical help.
In Zimbabwe, cultural beliefs dictate how individuals understand health and illness (Chikanda & Dhemba,
2018). For instance, many people view health as a holistic balance between the physical, spiritual, and
emotional realms. Traditional healers, known as "n'anga," are often the first point of contact for individuals
experiencing health issues, reflecting a deep-seated belief in the spiritual and ancestral dimensions of health
(Hankins, 2017). This preference for traditional healing methods can delay or prevent individuals from
seeking medical attention from healthcare professionals, particularly in the context of modern medicine.
Moreover, cultural beliefs influence dietary practices, exercise, and preventative measures. For example,
traditional Zimbabwean cuisine, which is rich in carbohydrates and vegetables, shapes dietary habits. While
these foods provide essential nutrients, they may also contribute to health challenges such as obesity and
hypertension, particularly when combined with a sedentary lifestyle (Matsungo et al., 2020). Understanding
these cultural dietary practices is crucial for healthcare professionals seeking to promote healthier lifestyles
and interventions.
Cultural Beliefs Observed in the Community
Within my community, several cultural beliefs related to health are prevalent. One notable belief is the
connection between illness and ancestral spirits. Many individuals believe that health issues may arise from
ancestral displeasure or imbalances in the spiritual realm (Ndlovu, 2019). Consequently, some may seek
guidance from traditional healers or engage in rituals to appease the spirits before considering conventional
medical treatment. This belief underscores the importance of integrating spiritual considerations into
healthcare practices to foster trust and cooperation between healthcare providers and patients.
Another common belief is the stigma surrounding mental health. In many rural communities, mental health
issues are often misunderstood or attributed to witchcraft or personal weakness (Gavua et al., 2022). This
stigma can discourage individuals from seeking help, leading to untreated mental health conditions that
affect overall well-being. Addressing this stigma is vital for promoting mental health awareness and
encouraging individuals to seek appropriate care.
Strategies for Delivering Culturally Competent Care
Recognizing and respecting cultural diversity within the patient population is essential for delivering
culturally competent care. Here are some strategies to achieve this:
1. Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity Training: Healthcare professionals should undergo training to
enhance their cultural competence. Understanding the cultural beliefs and practices of patients can
foster empathy and improve communication (Betancourt et al., 2016). This training should cover
 topics such as traditional healing practices, dietary customs, and mental health beliefs prevalent in
the community.
2. Building Trusting Relationships: Establishing rapport with patients is crucial. Healthcare providers
should take the time to listen to patients’ concerns and validate their beliefs. Engaging in
conversations that acknowledge cultural practices can build trust and encourage patients to share
their health experiences openly (Kleinman et al., 2006).
3. Integrating Traditional Practices: Incorporating elements of traditional healing practices into
healthcare can enhance patient acceptance. For instance, collaborating with traditional healers or
recognizing their role in the community can create a more inclusive approach to health. Offering
patients the option to combine traditional and modern medical practices can empower them to make
informed decisions about their health (Munyati & Chimbari, 2018).
4. Community Engagement and Education: Promoting health education initiatives that respect
cultural beliefs can enhance understanding and acceptance of modern medical practices. Community
health workshops can address prevalent health issues while considering cultural perspectives
(Mashingo & Ndlovu, 2019). Providing information in local languages and using culturally relevant
materials can enhance accessibility.
5. Promoting Mental Health Awareness: To combat the stigma surrounding mental health, healthcare
professionals should engage in community discussions that promote mental health awareness.
Collaborating with local leaders, schools, and community organizations can create platforms for
open dialogue, reducing stigma and encouraging individuals to seek help (Chikanda & Dhemba,
2018).
6. Tailored Health Interventions: Developing health interventions that align with cultural practices
can improve their effectiveness. For example, when promoting physical activity, healthcare providers
could incorporate traditional dance forms or community sports that resonate with cultural practices.
This approach makes health interventions more relatable and encourages participation (Matsungo et
al., 2020).
Conclusion
The intricate relationship between culture and health significantly impacts individuals' health-related
behaviors and their likelihood to seek medical help. As a healthcare professional in rural Zimbabwe, it is
imperative to recognize and appreciate the cultural beliefs and practices that shape the community's health
landscape. By implementing culturally competent care strategies, healthcare providers can enhance patient
engagement, foster trust, and ultimately improve health outcomes. Understanding the cultural influences on
health not only benefits individual patients but also strengthens the community's overall health and well-
being. Through collaboration, respect, and education, we can bridge the gap between traditional practices
and modern healthcare, creating a holistic approach to health that honors the rich cultural heritage of
Zimbabwe.
References
Betancourt, J. R., Green, A. R., Carrillo, J. E., & Owusu Ananeh-Firempong, I. (2016). Defining cultural
competence: A practical framework for addressing racial/ethnic disparities in health and health care. Public
Health Reports, 121(4), 496-508.
Chikanda, A., & Dhemba, J. (2018). The role of traditional medicine in healthcare delivery in Zimbabwe:
An overview. African Journal of Traditional, Complementary, and Alternative Medicines, 15(2), 43-51.
Gavua, K., Kamga, R. A., & Gavi, D. (2022). Exploring the stigma of mental health issues among
Zimbabwean communities: A qualitative study. International Journal of Social Psychiatry, 68(1), 30-38.
Hankins, C. (2017). Traditional healers and health care in Zimbabwe: A qualitative analysis. African
Journal of Primary Health Care & Family Medicine, 9(1), 1-7.
Matsungo, T. M., Dube, N., & Shamu, R. (2020). Dietary practices and their implications for health among
women in rural Zimbabwe. Journal of Community Health, 45(3), 554-562.
Mashingo, P., & Ndlovu, T. (2019). Health education in rural communities: Lessons from Zimbabwe. Health
Education Research, 34(5), 497-505.
Munyati, S., & Chimbari, M. J. (2018). Integrating traditional healing and modern medicine: A case study
of Zimbabwe. Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine, 14(1), 1-12.
Ndlovu, T. (2019). Cultural beliefs and health-seeking behavior in Zimbabwe: Implications for public
health. Journal of Health, Population, and Nutrition, 38(1), 10-20.