Zimbabwe’s health minister says local communities should work closely with industry, commerce and other stakeholders in helping government to revamp the health sector, devastated over the years by the country’s economic problems.
Speaking at the commissioning of a new Casualty Department at Gweru Provincial Hospital today, Dr. David Parirenyatwa, acknowledged the problems bedeviling the health sector, noting that the partnership would go a long way in revitalizing it.
Dr. Parirenyatwa said the infrastructure at the hospital was once in a sorry state and the upgrading of the department would ensure that it offers quality services to locals.
He thanked the Anglo American company, which through the firm's Chairman's Fund, donated a million dollars towards the construction of the Casualty Department as well as the establishment of a Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid and Cervicography Unit, where women can undergo tests for cervical cancer.
Speaking at the same occasion, former Midlands governor, Cephas Msipa, who addressed the gathering on behalf of Midlands Provincial Affairs Minister, Jason Machaya, said it is not necessary for Zimbabweans to seek medical help outside the country as local health personnel are equally competent and only need the necessary facilities and adequate remuneration to execute their duties.
Msipa, a senior Zanu PF member, revealed that he was recently hospitalized at a local hospital where he received quality treatment from dedicated medical practitioners.
Member of Parliament for Gweru Urban, Sesil Zvidzai, who is also a member of the parliamentary portfolio committee on health, said the establishment of the Casualty Department at Gweru Provincial Hospital through the help of a private company was a unique initiative which has to be emulated by other entities.
Unki Mines board chairperson, July Moyo, who represented the parent Anglo American company, said the funding of the casualty department is part of the company's focus to help uplift the communities in which it operates.
Deputy Health Minister Dr. Paul Chimedza and senior health ministry officials also attended the event.
Gweru Provincial Hospital has 350 beds and the new Casualty Department is capable of handling 40 patients.