Bindura – With Shamva experiencing an increase in cholera cases, the World Health Organization (WHO) supported the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC) to establish an 8-bed capacity Cholera Treatment Centre (CTC) at Tafuna shopping centre. Thanks to the financial support from Health Resilience Fund and UN Central Emergency Response Fund (UNCERF), the facility is dedicated to providing prompt access to life-saving care for cholera patients to reduce the possibility of deaths. Additionally, WHO delivered essential supplies, including cholera treatment kits to cater for 500 patients (80 severe and 420 moderate cases), and installed temporary toilets, promoting hygiene and reducing the risk of infection.

“We are grateful for this crucial support, and we will distribute the cholera supplies to other areas in need across the province,” said Mashonaland Central Provincial Medical Director Dr Cremance Tshuma.

Zimbabwe faces a widespread and escalating cholera outbreak, with cases reported across all provinces. As of February 29th, 2023, the outbreak has caused significant health concerns, particularly in Mashonaland Central province, which reported nearly 2,850 cases and 94 deaths contributing to 19.5% of the national burden.

The area recording high number of cases is a booming mining industry attracting a transient population of artisanal miners. The miners access water from contaminated sources like dumped mining pits and the Pote river, creating a breeding ground for cholera. Open defecation and limited sanitation facilities further exacerbated the situation. Densely populated settlements and social gatherings at unlicensed food stalls are also hotspots for transmission and MoHCC is working to address these challenges.

To foster community participation and ownership, MoHCC and WHO collaborated with the private sector, community leaders, and district authorities in Tafuna. Canterberry Mine provided equipment for site clearing and toilet construction, a local community leader offered land, and the district management contributed labor. WHO's expertise in disease control, resource mobilization, and global partnerships ensured the CTC's functionality and a broader response addressing the community's needs.

As part of the ongoing cholera outbreak response, WHO has supported the establishment and refurbishment of over 15 CTCs across the country, along with the distribution of medical supplies to all provinces, catering to thousands of patients.

"We are hopeful that this critical intervention will provide lifesaving care to those affected by the outbreak and prevent further transmission," stated Professor Jean-Marie Dangou, Acting WHO Representative to Zimbabwe. "WHO remains committed to collaborating with local communities to ensure the treatment center is well-equipped, staffed by trained personnel, and functioning effectively. Together, we can curb the spread of cholera and safeguard the health of the Tafuna community."