Harare – In a significant boost to Zimbabwe's healthcare infrastructure, the World Health Organization (WHO) today donated a wide range of medical equipment to the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC). The equipment, valued close to $1.8 million, was funded by various donors and partners, including the African Development Bank, the UN Central Emergency Response Fund (UNCERF), USAID and the Government of Japan.

The donation included essential items such as laboratory equipment worth $1.3 million, funded by the African Development Bank. This equipment includes ceiling-mounted digital X-ray machines, chemistry analyzers, extraction machines, and hematology machines. The equipment is part of the $10 million facility provided by AfDB to WHO as part of health system strengthening during and post-COVID19.

In addition, a cholera consignment worth $117,330.82, courtesy of the UN Central Emergency Response Fund (UNCERF) was handed over. This included both central and peripheral modules containing necessary drugs, water testing supplies, body bags, boundary nets, and personal protective equipment. Community module drugs for Oral Rehydration Points based care worth $15,620,00, funded through USAID was also donated. 

Funded through the Government of Japan, theatre and surgical equipment worth $236,968.00 was handed over. This equipment includes vital signs monitors, suction machines, electrosurgical units, dressing trolleys, and mechanical operating tables. 

“Japan remains committed to supporting Zimbabwe's sustainable development, with a focus on achieving Universal Health Coverage,” said Japan Ambassador to Zimbabwe His Excellency, Yamanaka Shinichi.

Since January 2023, Japan committed US$634,000 to strengthen Surgical, Obstetric, and Anaesthesia Care and three surgical camps were conducted at Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital, Sally Mugabe Central Hospital and Victoria Falls District hospital. At least 600 children and adults received free hernia, tonsillitis and benign tumors surgeries. This initiative consisted of immediate services; donation of equipment for retooling of hospital to ensure continuity as well as training of local surgeons to provide surgical care closer to their communities.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, Minister of Health and Child Care Dr Douglas Mombeshora expressed his deep gratitude to the WHO and its partners for their generous support. He emphasized the importance of these donations in improving the country's healthcare system and saving lives.

"This equipment will be instrumental in equipping our health facilities with essential supplies for the rapid response to cholera cases," the Dr Mombeshora said. "It will also enhance our diagnostic capabilities, thereby improving patient care and treatment outcomes."

The WHO has been a key partner in supporting Zimbabwe's health sector, particularly during emergencies such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent cholera outbreak. This latest donation is a testament to their ongoing commitment to helping the country build a resilient and sustainable healthcare system.

"While urgent crises like cholera outbreaks require immediate action, it's imperative that we invest in long-term solutions to strengthen our healthcare systems. By building resilience and capacity, we can better prepare for both current and future health challenges, ensuring a more sustainable and equitable future for all," notes WHO Zimbabwe Representative Dr Desta Tiruneh.

Links

https://www.afro.who.int/countries/zimbabwe/news/hope-and-healing-integrated-free-surgical-camp-offers-relief-zimbabweans