In a significant stride towards achieving universal health coverage, the government of Zimbabwe has intensified its efforts in healthcare infrastructure development across the country.
Over the past year, substantial investments have been made in the construction of hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies, aimed at enhancing healthcare accessibility and service delivery nationwide.
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According to Dr. Aspect Maunganidze, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Child Care, several major projects have been completed to bolster universal health coverage.
Among these accomplishments are the construction of four main hospitals, including Mataga, Runyararo, and Cowdray Park, alongside numerous 20-bed hospitals.
Additionally, the installation of 447 boreholes in clinics has been instrumental in addressing water reticulation challenges, particularly in combating the cholera epidemic.
The ministry plans to install an additional 200 boreholes to further enhance healthcare facilities’ water supply.
Furthermore, the implementation of 16 solar systems in Midlands and Masvingo provinces has facilitated reliable energy supply to healthcare facilities, ensuring continuous service delivery.
Efforts to enhance medical gas reticulation, with a focus on installing oxygen plants at Chinhoyi and Lupane hospitals, are also underway to strengthen critical healthcare infrastructure.
Natpharm, the national pharmaceutical agency, has played a pivotal role in improving pharmacy stores and warehouses.
The installation of 69 pharmacy stores, with 39 completed in 2023 alone, underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing medication accessibility and distribution channels.
Looking ahead, the Ministry of Health aims to continue its infrastructure development initiatives, with plans to construct mini hospitals and district-level hospitals.
The forthcoming projects include the construction of 20-bedded hospitals in Chivi, Manhize, and Zaka, followed by the development of 60-bedded district hospitals in Hwedza, Esigodini, and Harare.
In addition to new constructions, several hospitals, including Kwekwe General Hospital and Sadza District Hospital, have undergone refurbishments to improve their facilities and services.
The ongoing construction of Lupane Provincial Hospital exemplifies the government’s commitment to expanding healthcare infrastructure to underserved regions.
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As Zimbabwe progresses towards achieving universal health coverage, these investments in healthcare infrastructure are poised to significantly improve healthcare access, quality, and outcomes for all citizens.