A severely premature baby girl, born weighing just 405g at 28 weeks, has defied the odds to become one of Zimbabwe’s smallest recorded survivors.
As reported by <a href="https://www.zbcnews.co.zw/zims-tiny-miracle-405g-baby-defies-the-odds/">ZBC News</a>, baby Christwish Chingini was born on November 30, 2024, at United Bulawayo Hospitals, facing an incredibly difficult fight for survival.
For the past four months, she has been under intensive, specialised care, with doctors and nurses working tirelessly to support her fragile journey toward health.
Against all expectations, Christwish has shown incredible resilience, steadily gaining weight and strength. Now, at 1.8kg, her progress has been remarkable.
On Friday afternoon, after months of care and dedication, doctors officially discharged Christwish, declaring her healthy and ready to continue her recovery at home.

Pindula News

Baby Christwish was born very early and very small in Zimbabwe. She weighed only 405g when she was born. Doctors and nurses worked hard to help her grow stronger. After four months of care, she now weighs 1.8kg and is healthy. She is one of the smallest babies to survive in Zimbabwe. Doctors have allowed her to go home with her family. Christwish is a tiny miracle who has beaten the odds and is getting better every day.

Zimbabwean Baby Born Weighing Just 405g Overcomes Severe Prematurity

Authorities at Mpilo Central Hospital in Bulawayo have confirmed a flu outbreak in the city, with young children under five being the most affected.
Mpilo Central Hospital Clinical Director Solwayo Ngwenya said that the hospital has seen a rise in cases of toddlers seeking treatment for respiratory illnesses. He said:
<blockquote>
We do not have children admitted with a specific flu bug. However, there appears that there is a slight increase in sick children with respiratory disease. It is probably a seasonal trend.
I urge parents to be on the lookout for signs and symptoms of the flu. If the children are very sick with high temperatures, sneezing and coughing, seek medical attention earlier rather than later.
</blockquote>
Ngwenya urged parents to keep children who appear severely unwell at home to prevent the spread of infection to others, especially in schools.
Pharmacists at local pharmacies in the city have also confirmed a surge in demand for children’s flu medication over the past three weeks. Said a pharmacist:
<blockquote>
We have seen an increase in parents seeking medication for their toddlers which suggests that the flu bug is indeed spreading rapidly.
We have been overwhelmed with concerned parents seeking help for their sick children and unfortunately, we have temporarily run out of children’s flu medication. We are working to restock our shelves as soon as possible.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.heraldonline.co.zw/flu-bug-hits-bulawayo/">HeraldOnline</a>

The hospital in Bulawayo has a flu outbreak, affecting kids under five the most. The hospital saw more sick toddlers with respiratory problems. The hospital director advises parents to watch out for signs of flu in kids like high fever, sneezing, and coughing. Parents should keep very sick kids at home to prevent spreading the flu. Pharmacies noticed a lot of parents asking for children's flu medicine. They ran out of medicine but are working on restocking. It's important to take care and be cautious during this flu outbreak.

Flu Outbreak Hits Bulawayo, Children Under Five Most Affected

The Cimas Health Group has urged Zimbabweans to make routine visits to a haemodialysis centre for kidney health screening and early detection to access life-saving treatment.
With around 1,000 cases of kidney failure recorded annually in Zimbabwe, a Cimas official emphasised the importance of regular screening, particularly for individuals at risk of kidney disease.
In a speech read on his behalf during a visit to the Cimas Haemodialysis Centre, CEO Vuli Ndlovu said that early screening is crucial, especially for those with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney issues.
Ndlovu stressed that early detection and timely treatment can significantly slow the progression of kidney disease and improve long-term health outcomes. Added Ndlovu:
<blockquote>
Kidney disease is a significant health concern in Zimbabwe due to limited access to early diagnosis and treatment, which can help manage the disease in its initial stages.
Our dialysis centre operates with a 24-hour on-call service for emergencies, ensuring that patients receive care when they need it most
</blockquote>
Ndlovu urged those at risk of kidney disease to adopt a healthy lifestyle, as this is crucial in reducing the likelihood of developing kidney problems. He said:
<blockquote>
Adopting a healthy lifestyle is crucial in reducing the risk of kidney disease. Regular exercise helps to maintain a healthy weight and lowers blood pressure, contributing to better kidney health.
It is essential to monitor blood pressure regularly and manage it through a balanced diet, physical activity and medication when necessary.
Maintaining a kidney-friendly diet is also vital, a diet low in salt and processed foods but rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains supports kidney function and overall wellbeing.
</blockquote>
Ndlovu said the Cimas Health Group Dialysis Centre offers services for both chronic and acute kidney failure patients, as well as kidney transplant work-up services.
He added that they provide mobile haemodialysis for patients in intensive care units and offer renal treatment for patients over the age of 60.
The centre is equipped with state-of-the-art Baxter AK98 dialysis machines and automatic LikaMed Dialysis chairs, ensuring high-quality care for patients.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/health/article/200039426/cimas-calls-for-kidney-health-prioritisation">NewsDay</a>

The Cimas Health Group wants people in Zimbabwe to get screened for kidney problems regularly. They say around 1,000 people suffer from kidney failure each year in Zimbabwe. The CEO of Cimas stressed that early screening is important, especially for those with diabetes or high blood pressure. They offer services for both chronic and acute kidney failure, as well as kidney transplants. It's important to live a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk of kidney disease. The Cimas Dialysis Centre has advanced machines to give the best care to patients. The goal is to help people stay healthy and catch kidney problems early.

Cimas Calls For Kidney Health Screenings Amid Rising Cases Of Kidney Failure

Health and Child Care Minister Douglas Mombeshora has stopped the construction of the Watervlei Burial Memorial Park, which was recently approved by the Harare City Council. The park is located along Seke Road, adjacent to the Prince Edward Water Treatment Plant.
Mombeshora halted the project over concerns that decomposing human remains and chemicals could contaminate water due to the site’s proximity to the water treatment facility.
In a letter addressed to Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe, Mombeshora said no consultations had been conducted with the Ministry of Health and Child Care regarding the project. He said:
<blockquote>
This falls short of the requirements of the Public Health Act… Corpses discharge chemicals and impurities that could seep into the groundwater.
</blockquote>
Mombeshora said the cemetery’s location violates World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines, which recommend a buffer zone of at least 1 to 2 kilometers between cemeteries and water treatment facilities.
Despite warnings from the Harare Water Department about potential health risks, the Harare City Council granted a permit for the cemetery’s construction. Said Mombeshora:
<blockquote>
The cemetery is too close to the stream, raising the chances of contamination of Seke Dam’s ground and surface water.
</blockquote>
The envisaged cemetery’s proximity to the stream that feeds into the raw water source increases the risk of pollution, echoing the recent Lake Chivero pollution incident that devastated local wildlife and fish populations.

A new cemetery was stopped by the Health Minister because it's too close to a water treatment plant in Harare. Decomposing bodies and chemicals could pollute the water. The Health Minister says the cemetery violates health guidelines from the World Health Organisation. The Harare City Council approved the cemetery despite warnings about health risks. The Minister is worried about contamination of the water source. This could harm the environment and animals living in the area. The Minister wants the cemetery to be at least 1 to 2 kilometers away from the water treatment plant to keep the water safe.

Health Minister Blocks Construction Of Cemetery Near Water Treatment Facility

The Minister of Health and Child Care, Douglas Mombeshora, said the recent demonstrations held by nurses at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital in Harare were illegal as the issues raised by the nurses were already being addressed.
The nurses were protesting deteriorating working conditions, which they claimed were impacting operations at one of Zimbabwe’s largest referral hospitals.
Their grievances included a lack of basic amenities such as electricity and running water, which they said were affecting both their work and the quality of care provided to patients.
Speaking in Parliament last week, Mombeshora said the nurses’ primary complaint related to shortages of essential medicines and supplies, particularly syringes. He said the national medicine stock levels currently stand at 49%, with plans to reach 60% by the end of the year. Said Mombeshora:
<blockquote>
The problem that we saw of those who were demonstrating at Sally Mugabe Hospital has nothing to do with that system. It is all about their thoughts. They were complaining about the lack of stocks of medicines.
Of course, the stock levels may be low but right now the stock levels are at 49%, we are not happy with it but this year our target is 60%. We want to increase the levels gradually but we cannot do it immediately.
</blockquote>
Mombeshora said authorities were uncertain whether the nurses were protesting due to a shortage of syringes or if there were other underlying reasons, as syringes were available at pharmacies. He said:
<blockquote>
What surprised me is that when I went to Sally Mugabe Hospital on Monday when they were demonstrating, most of the things they were talking about were things that they knew were being looked into.
Some of the things they complained about were syringes. We went to pharmacies and saw the syringes.
So, we now do not know whether they were demonstrating because of a lack of syringes or they were doing it for something else.
What they did was illegal because they were supposed to give us two weeks in advance before they started demonstrating.
We told them to come and talk to us in time so that things may be worked out, we want to ensure that the health of our people is safe.
</blockquote>
Mombeshora said the Health Ministry faced challenges in procuring medicines, citing delays in budget allocations and extended lead times in manufacturing.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200039935/nurses-strike-illegal-govt">NewsDay</a>

The Health Minister says nurses protesting at Sally Mugabe Hospital did something wrong because their issues were already being fixed. The nurses were complaining about not having enough basic things like electricity and water that were affecting their work and patient care. The Minister said they were also upset about not having enough medicines and supplies, but they were already working on getting more. He said the nurses were supposed to talk to them first before protesting and that it was illegal for them to protest without warning. The Minister admitted there were challenges in getting medicines but they were trying to fix it.

Health Minister Calls Nurses' Protests At Sally Mugabe Hospital Illegal

Health and Child Care Minister Douglas Mombeshora said the government has received 14 shipping containers filled with essential medicines and medical supplies.
At the end of 2024, public health facilities only had 49% of the necessary stock, much lower than needed.
Zimbabwe requires about US$17 million worth of medicines each month to meet the demand, but this year, the government allocated only US$44 million for medicine procurement.
Speaking in Parliament last week, Mombeshora said the 14 containers are part of efforts to address delays in purchasing medicines, which were caused by late funding from the Treasury. He said:
<blockquote>
We ordered these medicines last December, but sourcing large quantities often takes time due to manufacturing and supply chain challenges.
We are grateful for the support from the Ministry of Finance, despite the delays in disbursements last time.
</blockquote>
Mombeshora acknowledged that last year’s 49% stock level was insufficient and said efforts are underway to increase the availability of medicines to 60% this year. He said:
<blockquote>
We are not proud of the 49 per cent stock level recorded last year, but we are working tirelessly to improve this figure.
Our goal is to reach 60 per cent and ensure no patient is turned away due to a lack of medicines. We have also intensified engagements with the Ministry of Finance to ensure the timely release of funds for medicine procurement. We are making every effort to prioritise the health of our people.
This includes not only procuring medicines but also addressing the underlying challenges in the healthcare system.
</blockquote>
Nurses at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital staged a strike last week to protest deteriorating working conditions.
Their grievances included the lack of basic amenities such as electricity and running water, low salaries, and shortages of medical supplies.
The protest caused a disruption in operations at one of Zimbabwe’s largest referral hospitals.
More: <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/zimbabwe-receives-medicines-shipment-to-address-shortages">The Sunday Mail</a>

The government got 14 big boxes of medicine. Last year, they did not have enough medicine in hospitals. They need $17 million every month for medicine, but only got $44 million this year. They are trying to fix the problem. The Minister of Health is working hard to make sure hospitals have enough medicine. Nurses went on strike because of bad conditions in the hospital. They need more money and supplies to take care of patients. The government is trying to solve these problems so that everyone can get the medical help they need.

Govt. Takes Delivery Of 14 Shipping Containers Of Essential Medical Supplies, Says Mombeshora

The Ministry of Health and Child Care has pledged to prioritize improving the water supply and repairing elevators at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital following a demonstration by nurses on March 17, 2025.
Nurses protested over the lack of basic amenities, such as electricity and running water, which they say are hindering their ability to provide proper care at the hospital, one of Zimbabwe’s largest referral hospitals. 
The demonstration, which began early in the morning, saw dozens of nurses holding placards with slogans like “No Water, No Power, No Care!” and “Our Patients Deserve Better.”
The nurses expressed frustration over the government’s failure to address long-standing issues within the healthcare system, describing the situation as untenable.
In a statement released on Tuesday, March 18, the Ministry of Health and Child Care assured the public that it was working to resolve the concerns raised by the nurses. The statement reads:
<blockquote>
The Ministry of Health and Child Care is addressing concerns raised by Sally Mugabe Central Hospital’s nursing staff, following a demonstration on March 17, 2025. 
The government is prioritizing the improvement of the hospital’s water supply, with plans to repair the 2.5-mega-litre tank as soon as possible to increase reservoir capacity and advocate for a more consistent water supply from the Harare City Council. 
Additionally, progress is being made with the hospital’s elevator system, with three elevators currently under repair and plans in place to make one operational within the next few days.
Efforts are also underway to address issues with the maternity and kitchen elevators.
Transportation for staff has been enhanced, with the hospital receiving a second bus from Head Office to ensure smoother operations. 
The hospital is also working to improve staff accommodation and cafeteria services in alignment with government policies.
In response to concerns about shortages of medical supplies, steps are being taken to address these issues promptly.
The Ministry remains committed to providing high-quality healthcare and a supportive environment for both patients and staff.
</blockquote>

The nurses at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital protested because they didn't have basic things like water and electricity. The government promised to fix the water supply and elevators at the hospital. They are also working on getting more medical supplies and improving transportation for the staff. The nurses are happy that the government is listening to their concerns and trying to make things better at the hospital.

Govt. Pledges To Address Nurse Concerns At Sally Mugabe Hospital After Protest

Nurses at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital in Harare staged a protest on Monday, 17 March, to highlight deteriorating working conditions that have disrupted operations at one of Zimbabwe’s largest referral hospitals.
The healthcare workers raised concerns about the lack of basic amenities, such as electricity and running water, which they say are severely affecting their ability to work and provide proper care for patients.
The demonstration, which began early in the morning, saw dozens of nurses holding placards with slogans like “No Water, No Power, No Care!” and “Our Patients Deserve Better.”
The nurses voiced their frustration over the government’s failure to address long-standing issues that have plagued the healthcare system, calling the situation untenable.
One nurse, speaking on condition of anonymity for fear of retaliation, said:
<blockquote>
We are working in a hospital that has no electricity for hours on end, and sometimes there is no running water for days. How are we expected to provide quality care under such conditions?
We are not just fighting for ourselves; we are fighting for our patients, who are suffering the most.
</blockquote>
Public sector employees in Zimbabwe who participate in protests usually face victimisation and harassment at the hands of authorities.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200039638/sally-mugabe-nurses-demonstrate-over-failing-health-system-poor-working-conditions">NewsDay</a>

Nurses at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital in Zimbabwe protested because they don't have electricity and running water. They say they can't work properly and take care of patients. They held signs saying they deserve better conditions. The government hasn't fixed these problems for a long time. One nurse said it's hard to provide good care without basic needs. Nurses fear they will be punished for speaking out. They want to help patients but need better working conditions.

Nurses Protest At Sally Mugabe Hospital Over Deteriorating Conditions

Health and Child Care Minister Douglas Mombeshora said that the government plans to recruit nearly 20,000 health workers affected by funding cuts from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
These workers, including doctors, nurses, and village health workers, were heavily dependent on USAID support.
Over 1,000 doctors and nurses played a key role in treating opportunistic infections, while nearly 19,000 village health workers were essential for primary healthcare. Approximately 15,000 of these workers received payments from partner organisations.
The cuts, triggered by an executive order from former President Donald Trump, have hurt Zimbabwe’s HIV/AIDS, TB, and malaria programmes.
Speaking at last week’s “Ministers Meet the Media” engagement, Mombeshora confirmed that the Treasury is mobilising funds to ensure these workers are absorbed into the government payroll. He said:
<blockquote>
We, as the Ministry of Health, have already planned to take over all health workers under the ministry’s employment.
There were accountability issues because some health workers employed by NGOs (non-governmental organisations) and partners had unclear reporting structures. At times when they were absent, we didn’t know their whereabouts.
We had already started these discussions last year to say all workers in the health system must be put under the Ministry of Health and if partners are coming in to help us, they can come in and top up, but all employees must belong to the ministry.
Treasury is actually mobilising funds to make sure we take over all these workers and make sure they will be on our payroll, including even recruiting extra ones because we have a compact way we agreed that we need to double our health workforce by the year 2030.
</blockquote>
Mombeshora also reassured the public that there are sufficient stocks of antiretroviral (ARV) medications to meet the country’s needs until the end of June 2025. He added:
<blockquote>
However, shipments meant to cover the period from June to December have been stopped and we cannot wait for the outcome of the 90-day review process before acting.
In terms of service delivery, in terms of those who are on HIV and AIDS treatment, there will be no disruption; there will be no shortage of any medicines. No one should actually be scared; no one should actually start worrying.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/lifeline-for-20-000-health-workers">The Sunday Mail</a>

The government is going to hire 20,000 health workers who lost their jobs because of funding cuts from USAID. These workers are important for treating diseases like HIV, AIDS, TB, and malaria in Zimbabwe. The government will use its own money to pay these workers. The Minister of Health said they need to hire more health workers by 2030. He also said there is enough medicine for people with HIV and AIDS until 2025, but they need to figure out how to get more medicine after that. People should not worry, there will still be enough medicine for everyone.

Govt. Plans To Hire 20,000 Health Workers Affected By USAID Funding Cuts

The Anti-Corruption Commission of Southern Africa Trust (ACT-SA) has accused attendants at Kwekwe General Hospital of allegedly demanding bribes from grieving families in exchange for expedited clearance of their deceased relatives from the mortuary.
In a statement released on Thursday, ACT-SA director Obert Chinhamo claimed that hospital attendants are reportedly soliciting bribes on behalf of doctors to fast-track the necessary paperwork. 
Chinhamo also expressed concern that the doctors involved may be unaware of the corrupt actions of certain personnel at the hospital’s mortuary, which could be tarnishing their professional reputations. Said Chinhamo:
<blockquote>
ACT-SA has received with concern unfortunate developments at Kwekwe General Hospital in which mourners face difficulties to retrieve bodies of their ones from the mortuary for burial before certain payments are allegedly made to some officials at the mortuary.
It is alleged that these officials at the mortuary solicit money, which they say is for doctors to enable them to sign certain documents before the bodies can be retrieved from the mortuary for burial. The fact that the monies paid are not receipted, raises suspicion of corruption.
</blockquote>
However, the hospital’s Acting Medical Superintendent, Dr Bruce Mhondiwa, has dismissed the allegations.
Dr Mhondiwa urged anyone who has made such payments to come forward and report the matter to both the police and the hospital administration. He said:
<blockquote>
It’s actually a surprise to me because normally burial orders are for free. Doctors normally write burial orders every morning. I haven’t received any complaints.
Normally we complaints raised at the hospital and it is protocol in the Ministry of Health and Childcare to investigate the complaints and redress the problems and the complaints within seven days.
I urge the community if they are facing challenges at our mortuary to contact the Medical Superintendent over the challenges. We say no to corruption, we don’t want corruption.
No one is supposed to pay for that, there is no fee for that. It’s for free. Please let them come out so that we help them.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://masvingomirror.com/kwekwe-mortuary-staff-demanding-bribes-corruption-body/">The Mirror</a>

The Anti-Corruption Commission says workers at Kwekwe General Hospital are taking bribes from families who want to get bodies from the mortuary. They ask for money to make paperwork go faster. The hospital says they don't know about this and they don't charge for paperwork. They want people to report any bribes they were asked for. The director of the Anti-Corruption Commission is worried that this is ruining the reputation of the doctors. The hospital's Acting Medical Superintendent says they will investigate any complaints and solve them within seven days.

Kwekwe General Hospital Mortuary Attendants Accused Of Demanding Bribes From Mourning Families

First Capital Bank Zimbabwe, in partnership with CancerServe Trust, donated essential cancer medication to the Gynaecology Department at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals on Friday, to improve access to treatment for patients in need.
The donation includes 110 vials of Paclitaxel and 10 doses of 10.8mg Zoladex, worth USD$5,000. It is expected to support up to 120 patients fighting ovarian, prostate, and breast cancer.
This initiative reflects First Capital Bank’s ongoing commitment to corporate social responsibility and its broader goal of supporting healthcare services in Zimbabwe.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, First Capital Bank CEO Tapera Mushoriwa highlighted the bank’s dedication to improving access to healthcare. Said Mushoriwa:
<blockquote>
We are honored to support this important cause. At First Capital Bank, we believe in ensuring access to quality healthcare for all, regardless of financial status. 
Our partnership with CancerServe Trust has made a tangible impact over the past three years, and we remain committed to sustaining this momentum.
</blockquote>
CancerServe Trust Founder and Chairperson, Dr. Nyakabau, praised the partnership and expressed hope that the initiative will inspire other organizations to contribute as well.
More: <a href="https://healthtimes.co.zw/2025/03/08/first-capital-bank-donates-cancer-medication-to-parirenyatwa-hospital/">Health Times</a>

First Capital Bank Zimbabwe donated cancer medication to Parirenyatwa Hospital to help patients. They gave Paclitaxel and Zoladex worth $5,000. The medicine will help patients with ovarian, prostate, and breast cancer. The bank cares about healthcare for all, no matter how much money they have. This donation is part of the bank's commitment to helping healthcare in Zimbabwe. CancerServe Trust also helped with the donation. The founder, Dr. Nyakabau, wants more organizations to help too. This is a good example of companies giving back to the community.

First Capital Bank Donates Cancer Medication To Parirenyatwa Hospital

Expecting mothers in Zimbabwe’s rural areas are often forced to sleep on the floor due to a lack of beds and water in the waiting shelters at public referral hospitals, according to Members of Parliament.
During Wednesday’s question and answer session, MPs revealed that pregnant women in maternity waiting homes (MWHs) are required to cook for themselves and fetch their own water, even as they approach their delivery dates.
MWHs are designed to provide accommodation for high-risk women in the final weeks of pregnancy, so they can stay near hospitals with essential obstetric facilities.
Tabeth Murwira, a proportional representative Member of Parliament, asked Health and Child Care Deputy Minister Sleiman Kwidini what measures the government had in place to address this issue.
Another MP, Sithabisiwe Moyo, said that expecting mothers are left to sleep on cold floors without food at MWHs. She said:
<blockquote>
Most of the time, these shelters lack security, and the women are forced to lie on the floor.
Expecting mothers need a proper place to rest and be admitted to hospitals, not just an empty room without bedding.
These mothers are also not provided with food; they are told to find their own. Many of them come from distant areas.
</blockquote>
In response, Kwidini acknowledged the challenges faced by expectant mothers and said that the ministry is working to improve the situation. He said:
<blockquote>
It is true that women who want to give birth at the hospital often arrive to find that the waiting rooms have no beds or food.
The Ministry of Health is working tirelessly, day and night, to address this issue, alongside the Ministry of Public and Social Welfare, to provide food for the maternity wings.
We are also working to acquire more comfortable beds.
</blockquote>
However, Kwidini said that providing water to hospitals falls outside his ministry’s mandate.
He also urged lawmakers to allocate part of their Constituency Development Fund (CDF) to help build and maintain maternity shelters in their constituencies.
More: <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/expecting-mothers-being-neglected-in-waiting-shelters-minister-told/">ZimLive</a>

Expecting mothers in rural Zimbabwe have to sleep on the floor in waiting shelters because there are not enough beds and water. They have to cook for themselves and find their own water, even close to giving birth. These shelters are supposed to help high-risk pregnant women stay near hospitals before delivery. Members of Parliament raised this issue, asking the government to improve conditions. The Health Minister acknowledged the challenges and said they are working on providing more beds and food. However, the issue of water supply falls outside the ministry's mandate. Lawmakers are urged to use funds to help build and maintain maternity shelters in their areas.

Expecting Mothers In Rural Zimbabwe Face Harsh Conditions In Maternity Waiting Homes

Dr. Victor Muleya, a respected biochemist and academic, has died at the age of 41 after a failed surgery. He passed away in Harare on Friday and will be buried in his hometown, Beitbridge.
Muleya played a key role in founding the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at Midlands State University (MSU) in 2016, alongside the late Vice-Chancellor Professor Ngwabi Bhebhe and founding dean Dr. Reginald Matchaba-Hove. 
He was a senior lecturer in the Biochemistry Department and was deeply involved in medical research, focusing on biochemistry, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical sciences.
He earned his degrees from the University of Zimbabwe, the University of Western Cape, and Monash University in Australia. 
After completing his PhD, Muleya returned to Zimbabwe to contribute to the country’s healthcare sector, turning down job offers abroad to help establish MSU’s medical school and teach future healthcare professionals.
Muleya’s work in research and teaching has had a lasting impact on Zimbabwe’s healthcare system, helping to train skilled professionals and develop a medical curriculum that meets international standards. 
His work also included community outreach programs to improve healthcare in Zimbabwe. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of healthcare workers.
Professor Stanley Mukanganyama, President-Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Society of Zimbabwe and his former lecturer at UZ, described Muleya as a “distinguished biochemist, educator, and researcher”. He said:
<blockquote>
Dr Muleya was an esteemed member of the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Society of Zimbabwe and a pillar in the scientific community, whose contributions to biochemistry and molecular cell biology have left an indelible mark.
Muleya dedicated his life to the pursuit of scientific excellence and education. He earned his Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology from Monash University, Melbourne, Australia, in 2015, where his ground-breaking research on the mechanistic modulation of GC-linked receptor kinase, PSKR1, gained international recognition.
His academic journey also included a Master’s degree in Biotechnology from the University of the Western Cape, South Africa, and a http://B.Sc. (Hons) in Biochemistry from the University of Zimbabwe.
I had the opportunity to teach and supervise him at undergraduate level. He obtained a first-class on his project and an overall first-class degree (1) for his BSc Honours degree in Biochemistry.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://x.com/NewsHawksLive/status/1898727088615464983">The NewsHawks (X)</a>

Dr. Victor Muleya, a famous biochemist, passed away at 41 in Harare after failed surgery. He helped start the Faculty of Medicine at MSU and was a senior lecturer. He studied at universities in Zimbabwe, Australia, and South Africa. He turned down job offers abroad to teach in Zimbabwe. His work in research and teaching improved healthcare. He was praised by his colleagues for his excellence in biochemistry and education. His legacy will inspire future healthcare workers in Zimbabwe.

Renowned Biochemist And MSU Medical School Pioneer, Victor Muleya,  Dies at 41

The Zimbabwe Nurses Association (ZINA) says that nurses in the public health sector across the country are facing serious financial struggles and difficult working conditions.
ZINA recently visited several hospitals and clinics in the Midlands Province, such as Kwekwe General Hospital, Mbizo 11 Clinic, Mvuma District Hospital, and others, to talk about the challenges nurses are facing in Zimbabwe’s healthcare system.
In an interview with <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200039049/nurses-bemoan-poor-working-conditions">NewsDay</a>, ZINA president Enock Dongo said that the salaries for January and February were “shockingly low and insufficient” to cover even the basic needs of healthcare workers. Said Dongo:
<blockquote>
The nurses have gone back to the salaries that they were earning in October. In February they received between US$220 and US$250 allowance and their ZiG salary was between ZiG4 000 and ZiG7 000 and considering the parallel market exchange rate, that is not enough.
The nurses, already grappling with financial challenges, are working under extreme conditions that compound their frustrations.
Many are struggling to cover transportation costs and some have had to make difficult decisions regarding basic daily expenses due to the meagre pay.
</blockquote>
He said the situation is even more dire in rural hospitals, where many facilities lack security guards and mortuary attendants, forcing nurses to take on additional responsibilities beyond their professional duties. Added Dongo:
<blockquote>
Nurses in rural areas are also struggling to secure accommodation, as they are not provided with houses and are forced to use their meagre salaries to rent places to stay…
We noted that the country’s healthcare system is facing chronic shortages of both equipment and staff, leading to overwhelming pressure on the remaining workforce.
Nurses are reporting long shifts, often without the necessary resources to properly care for patients and overcrowded hospitals are making it difficult to maintain quality healthcare services.
The physical and emotional toll on healthcare workers is growing and this could lead to further burnout and exodus of skilled professionals.
</blockquote>
Dongo called on the government to urgently address the issues faced by nurses, warning that many are leaving for better opportunities because of low pay and poor working conditions.
He said the situation could get worse, and if the government doesn’t act quickly, even more skilled healthcare workers might leave.
Dongo urged the government to focus on improving the health sector by raising salaries, improving working conditions, and investing more in healthcare resources.

Nurses in Zimbabwe are struggling with low pay and bad working conditions. They are not getting enough money to cover their basic needs like food and transportation. This is making them very frustrated. In rural areas, nurses have to do extra work because there are not enough staff. They also have trouble finding a place to live. The government needs to pay nurses more, improve their working conditions, and give them the resources they need to do their job properly. If things don't change, more nurses might leave their jobs.

ZINA: Nurses Struggling With Financial Challenges And Poor Working Conditions

Nearly 300 babies and 54 women died in Zimbabwe due to complications during childbirth in January 2025 alone, according to Deputy Minister of Health and Childcare, Sleiman Kwidini, who revealed the figures in Parliament recently.
Harare recorded the highest number of neonatal deaths, with 111 cases, along with 19 maternal deaths. Said Kwidini (via <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/299-babies-and-54-mothers-die-in-a-month-as-zimbabweans-pay-the-price-for-shambolic-health-system/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>):
<blockquote>
The maternal deaths as of January 2025 to date is currently set as 54. Moving back to 2024, I will start by Harare Province where we have maternal deaths of 19 and neonatal deaths of 111.
The leading cause of death was hypertensive disorders and its complications, including renal failure.
The other was post-partum hemorrhage post having an abortion, post-normal delivery and also post-caesarian section.
Some had underlying HIV and Diabetic Mellitus conditions. Other causes were dilated cardiomyopathy.
</blockquote>
Kwidini further stated that neonatal deaths were primarily caused by respiratory complications. He said:
<blockquote>
On neonatal deaths of 299, the leading cause was respiratory distress as a complication. Secondary was birth asplenium due to challenges with intercultural chair.
</blockquote>
The deputy minister acknowledged that rural communities are disproportionately affected by the lack of adequate health services. He said:
<blockquote>
We are indeed having challenges in rural areas, especially when one changes skills and also the road networks where our people should access medical attention quickly, especially pregnant women.
However, what we have done as the ministry now is, we are retraining because we know our trained midwives have migrated to what is called greener pastures, which gives us a burden as a ministry.
</blockquote>
Kwidini said the government has reintroduced a large-scale retraining program for midwives to better serve communities in rural areas. He added:
<blockquote>
We are also upgrading what we call primary care nurses in rural areas to be able to be midwives so that they can also render services like the ones which were being given by those departed midwives.
We have gone far further to deploy what we call mobile small scanning machines so that our pregnant women can undergo scanning, which is recommended at the initial stage when the pregnant woman is going to book for antenatal care so that we reduce those complications, especially on maternal and neonatal deaths.
</blockquote>
While Zimbabwe, like many other developing countries, struggles to raise sufficient funds to equip medical facilities and adequately remunerate health staff, critics argue that the government spends its limited resources on extravagance, such as purchasing luxury vehicles for bureaucrats and offering other hefty perks.

In January 2025, 299 babies and 54 mothers died in Zimbabwe during childbirth. Most deaths were due to hypertension and respiratory problems. The Deputy Minister of Health acknowledged that rural areas lack adequate healthcare services. The government is training more midwives and providing mobile scanning machines to help pregnant women. Critics say the government spends money on luxury items instead of healthcare. The goal is to reduce maternal and neonatal deaths in Zimbabwe by improving healthcare services.

299 Newborns And 54 Mothers Die In Zimbabwe In January 2025

A concerned citizen has revealed the dire conditions at United Bulawayo Hospitals (UBH) following a visit on Friday night with his cousin, who had a dislocated shoulder.
The citizen, a lawyer in Bulawayo, commended the medical staff for their dedication but pointed out that they lacked essential medication and medical equipment, leaving them helpless in treating patients.
This situation at UBH may reflect the challenges faced by public health facilities across the country, with serious consequences for patients. Below is the account shared by the concerned citizen:
<blockquote>
THE SITUATION at UBH is terrible.
I had a first-hand experience of how bad our medical facilities are. It’s shocking, I tell you!
Yesterday, the 28th of February 2025, l had a first-hand experience of how bad our medical facilities have become. My cousin had a shoulder dislocation injury and I had to rush him to Cyrene Clinic. It was around 20:30 hrs, the clinic was closed, and one fine gentleman had to assist us by hunting down the medical staff.
A nurse arrived. She indicated that the dislocation was bad and referred us to UBH. And all she could give my cousin was paracetamol.
We quickly drove to UBH. As we drove into the facility, we were welcomed by the concerning spectacle of darkness, as the hospital was poorly lit; and parts of it had no lights at all. Also, we noticed that the hospital did not have security guards, not even one. And we thought he was strange and dangerous.
We navigated our way through the darkness and got into the casualty department. That area was just a mess. Nothing assuring was happening there. There were patients all over the place, and some of them were screaming in pain, and the hospital staff didn’t have the necessary medical tools or medication to help the patients. Medical staff were asking relatives or people who had brought in patients to go and buy medication or medical materials for them to be able to treat the patients.
The sights and sounds of the situation I witnessed last night at UBH were unbelievable. The only consolation was that the staff was visibly committed, but their commitment did not amount to much, without the necessary medication and medical equipment. They were helpless, literally.
Back to my horrifying experience with my cousin. The committed medical staff handled him professionally, I must say. They properly attended to his “shoulder dislocation”. After that, real drama followed.
The whole UBH institution did not have an arm sling, which is a bandage that is used to support an injured arm. l am not talking of an arm sling pouch, which I am told is more comfortable and more expensive, but a simple arm-sling bandage. So, realising that my cousin needed an arm sling, the good doctor decided to improvise. She quickly grabbed some plastics and engineered it into a makeshift arm sling bandage which also looked like an improvised arm sling pouch. We were left breathless and speechless but grateful.
The good doctor then discharged my cousin and told us to go and buy a proper arm sling and painkillers at a pharmacy. This reminded me of the recent incident in which a hospital in Beitbridge used makeshift cardboard splits for victims of a bus crash.
Anyway, we left UBH after my cousin was discharged. You can see the pictures I took of him with the plastic arm sling pouch and in severe pain, because UBH did not have painkillers to give him.
By that time, it was around 03:00 hrs this morning; there was no pharmacy open in Bulawayo. I only managed to purchase the arm sling and the painkillers after pharmacies opened for business around 09:00 hrs this morning.
The situation at UBH is dire.
As I mentioned, the medical staff there is great and appears to be quite committed but it is seriously, and I would say, tragically handicapped by the lack of medication and the lack of the necessary tools of their medical profession. From what my cousin experienced and what I saw, UBH is a hospital only in name. There is no hospital there. Something must really give.
It cannot be business as usual. I wonder whether the UBH CEO is aware of this and even more seriously, I wonder whether Zimbabwe has a Minister of Healthcare. The situation out there is really, really bad.
One can only imagine with trepidation the horror that is suffered by patients who go to UBH with more serious or life-threatening injuries. I doubt if they come out alive.
<img alt="Image" decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Gk9d7CFXUAEVzP8?format=jpg&amp;name=medium"/>
</blockquote>

A person visited United Bulawayo Hospitals with their cousin who had a shoulder injury. They found the hospital in a bad state, with lack of medication and medical tools. The hospital was poorly lit, had no security guards, and patients were asked to buy their own medication. The staff tried their best but were limited by the lack of resources. The person's cousin had to be given a makeshift arm sling. The situation at the hospital is dire, and there are concerns about the quality of care for patients with more serious injuries. Overall, the hospital is struggling due to a lack of medication and essential equipment.

"The Situation At United Bulawayo Hospitals Is Dire"

Douglas Runyowa, the Chief Director for Commerce in the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, has said nearly 50% of groceries seized from tuck shops and vending stalls during the ongoing crackdown on counterfeit and smuggled goods in Zimbabwe are fake and potentially harmful to health.
Speaking before the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Industry and Commerce on Tuesday, Runyowa expressed concern over the growing problem of counterfeit products in Zimbabwe, saying the situation has reached alarming levels. He said (via <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/half-of-stock-sold-in-zimbabwean-tuck-shops-are-fake-goods-ministry-official/">ZimLive</a>):
<blockquote>
Most of what we have seen in the informal sector is quite shocking, and in our awareness programmes, we are saying it might be cheap but it’s coming at an expense to your health because we cannot guarantee what is not there.
Our health authorities have not certified some of those goods as safe and fit for human consumption, hence we really need to intensify our efforts through an all-stakeholder approach and it is a fight that would also be needed for our portfolio committee to help us intensify, because really what is out there is quite scary.
</blockquote>
Runyowa revealed that the counterfeit products seized include fake Vaseline, flour, rice, and toothpaste. He said:
<blockquote>
I would like to, not to scare you, but to advise you that we recently carried out a survey with the Standards Association of Zimbabwe where we went and bought products from the shelf and took them for testing and compared what was written in the results; 50 per cent of the products did not comply. You can actually see fake Vaseline, fake flour, fake rice, fake toothpaste, and this is an alarming rate.
You will be aware that over the last quarter, going back to October, there has been an intensified blitz against counterfeit goods, against smuggled goods, so much so that even this afternoon we are actually destroying about four tonnes of goods that were actually confiscated during that practice, to ensure that we remove them from the shelves, because we cannot guarantee our people that they are actually consuming safe goods.
</blockquote>
Runyowa called on Parliament to lend its support in the ongoing battle against the spread of counterfeit products.

Half of all groceries sold in Zimbabwean tuck shops are fake and can be harmful to health. The government is trying to stop the sale of these counterfeit products. The Chief Director for Commerce is worried about this problem getting worse. They found fake Vaseline, flour, rice, and toothpaste being sold. They did tests and found that 50% of the products were not safe. The government is working hard to remove these fake products from the shelves. They need help from Parliament to fight against counterfeit goods.

"Half Of Grocery Items Sold In Zimbabwean Tuck Shops Are Fake"

Health and Childcare Deputy Minister Sleiman Kwidini accused hospital staff of deliberately sabotaging hospital machinery to force repairs, allowing them to work at private hospitals for extra cash.
Kwidini made these remarks during a tour of the United Bulawayo Hospitals (UBH) last week. He also announced that the government plans to reintroduce locum in all public hospitals to motivate health workers to stay in the public sector. He said:
<blockquote>
Some of the problems that we see in hospitals, such as mechanical faults are caused by our people because they would want to ground the systems in the institutions and to go and practice in the private sector where they can get more money.
I have seen our chemistry machines in labs and most of them have technical faults and these technical faults are not the manufacturers’ problem or the age but it is because of our people who are working on those machines.
They are creating those faults so that they can take these specimens to the private where they practise as locum practitioners.
</blockquote>
UBH Chief Medical Officer William Busuman urged the government to implement measures that will attract doctors to work in public institutions. Said Busuman (via <a href="https://newsday.co.zw/southerneye/local/article/200038725/govt-to-reintroduce-locum-in-public-hospitals-kwidini">Southern Eye</a>):
<blockquote>
We want the government to reintroduce issues to do with locum for health practitioners so that they come back to public hospitals.
If we have the locum funds or on-call funds, there will not be any workers who will be found in private hospitals.
It is a way that we saw that may reduce a lot of challenges in the hospital.
</blockquote>

The Deputy Minister of Health said some hospital staff are breaking machines on purpose to get extra money working in private hospitals. He wants to reintroduce locum in public hospitals to keep workers from leaving. The Chief Medical Officer at UBH wants measures to attract doctors back to public hospitals. He says having locum funds will help reduce challenges in hospitals. It's important for staff to work together in public hospitals and not sabotage equipment for personal gain.

Health Deputy Minister Blames Staff Sabotage For Equipment Breakdowns In Public Hospitals

Health and Child Care Deputy Minister Sleiman Kwidini says the government plans to reintroduce locum funds in all public hospitals to motivate health workers to remain in the public sector.
During a tour of the United Bulawayo Hospitals (UBH) last week, Kwidini said that the funds would provide additional income for nurses, doctors, and laboratory scientists, encouraging them to stay at work and perform locum duties. Said Kwidini (via <a href="https://newsday.co.zw/southerneye/local/article/200038725/govt-to-reintroduce-locum-in-public-hospitals-kwidini">Southern Eye</a>):
<blockquote>
It was also reducing the turnaround time for our patients in the hospital because everyone would be attended to in time.
There were no shortages and it would cover the gap in human capital. So if we return this, it is another way of motivating our staff.
You have seen it is an outcry which is happening in our institutions that doctors are not readily available when patients have come because some will be going out for locums.
But we are saying we had this system in our ministry so we are now engaging the ministry and other responsible authorities to reintroduce it. Then we make sure that these locums are funded, it motivates them.
</blockquote>
A locum is a person who temporarily fulfils the duties of another who is absent. For example, a locum doctor may work in a hospital to cover for another doctor who is on leave.

The government wants to give extra money to health workers in public hospitals to encourage them to stay and help more patients. This extra money is for nurses, doctors, and lab scientists who work extra shifts called locums. Locums help fill in for workers who are not there. The government thinks this will help patients get treated faster and better because more workers will be there. The plan is to bring back this extra pay and support for health workers.

Government To Reintroduce Locum In Public Hospitals - Kwidini

A total of 600 cataract patients in Zimbabwe will receive free surgeries through the China-aided “Bright Journey” programme.
Cataracts, a condition where the eye’s lens becomes cloudy, lead to a decrease in vision and can cause symptoms such as blurry vision, difficulty seeing at night, sensitivity to light, and seeing “halos” around lights. Cataracts are a common cause of vision impairment, especially in older adults.
According to <a href="https://english.news.cn/20250220/13bf6d6581d74fa0942496ab8a0909fc/c.html">Xinhua</a>, a team of 12 doctors from China’s Hunan Provincial People’s Hospital will perform the surgeries from February 23 to March 1 in Harare.
Team leader Hong Xiuqin revealed that screening for eligible patients began on February 12 and is still ongoing.
She said that the Chinese medical team will work with local doctors, offer on-site training, and engage in academic exchanges with Zimbabwean healthcare professionals.
Hong said the programme is designed to promote cooperation and exchanges between the two countries, while also bringing light and hope to Zimbabwean patients. She said:
<blockquote>
The incidence of cataracts in Zimbabwe is high, and we are concerned about the health of the Zimbabwean people.
</blockquote>
She also noted that the Chinese government places great importance on the cooperation and friendship between China and Zimbabwe.
Boniface Macheka, head of ophthalmology at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, praised the initiative, calling it a testament to the strong relations between Zimbabwe and China. Said Macheka:
<blockquote>
There is a historical basis for the relationship between our country and China. I believe this relationship is going to be further solidified by this programme.
We hope to be able to increase the diversity of the surgeries that we do at this hospital so that we’ll be able to serve our people better and make the services more available.
</blockquote>
Amos Chakaza, a 67-year-old patient who travelled over 170 km from Manicaland Province to Harare for screening, said that he was eager to regain his eyesight so he could become more productive. Said Chakaza:
<blockquote>
I can’t wait for my vision to be clear since I have a lot of responsibilities. Having poor eyesight is detrimental to my work. I need to see clearly to be more productive.
</blockquote>

Chinese doctors are going to Zimbabwe to help 600 people with cataracts. Cataracts make it hard to see and are common in older people. The doctors will do surgeries for free from February 23 to March 1 in Harare. They started screening patients on February 12. The Chinese team will train local doctors too. This helps the countries work together and gives hope to the patients. The head doctor in Zimbabwe is happy about the help from China. One patient is looking forward to being able to see better so he can work properly.

Chinese Doctors To Perform Free Cataract Surgeries For 600 Patients In Zimbabwe

Health and Child Care Minister, Douglas Mombeshora, assured the public that Zimbabwe has enough stock of anti-retroviral (ARV) drugs to last for the next six months.
He also said that efforts to procure additional supplies to cover the remainder of the year are already underway.
Mombeshora made the remarks during Wednesday’s question time in the National Assembly, where lawmakers raised concerns following the global suspension of development and humanitarian aid by former U.S. President Donald Trump.
The minister said the Government is committed to safeguarding the country’s progress in combating HIV and AIDS. He said:
<blockquote>
We are doing everything to ensure that we don’t reverse the gains we have made in the fight against HIV and AIDS.
As a matter of policy, we already have supplies of the ARVs for the next six months and procurement processes to get drugs that will last until the end of the year is already underway.
</blockquote>
Mombeshora added that even if the U.S. government were to reverse its policy, it would not impact the contingency measures implemented by the Government. He said:
<blockquote>
We will soon come to this August House seeking your support for additional funding to ensure that there are no disruptions in the supply of the drugs.
</blockquote>
Mombeshora revealed that 31 per cent of the country’s ARVs were procured through U.S. funding, while the remainder were purchased by the Government through the National Aids Council and other development partners.
Zimbabwe achieved the 95-95-95 targets in 2022, which aim to ensure that 95 per cent of people living with HIV are aware of their status, 95 per cent are receiving treatment, and 95 per cent of those on treatment have a suppressed viral load.

Zimbabwe's Health Minister says they have enough ARVs for 6 months. They are working on getting more for the rest of the year. The US stopped giving aid, but the Minister says they have a plan to keep getting the ARVs. They want to make sure people with HIV continue to get their medicine. The Minister asked for more funding to make sure there are no shortages. Zimbabwe has been doing well in treating HIV, with many people getting tested and treated. They want to keep up the good work.

Zimbabwe Has Enough ARVs For Six Months - Health Minister

The Ministry of Health and Childcare has released its Weekly Disease Report for the week ending 02 February 2025, providing updates on various health concerns across the country.
Influenza/Common Cold: 
A total of 3,912 suspected cases of influenza/common cold were reported this week, with no deaths. Manicaland and Mashonaland East provinces recorded the highest number of cases, with 1,439 and 967 cases, respectively. The cumulative total stands at 13,471 suspected cases, with no reported deaths.
Measles: 
Seven new suspected cases of measles were reported, with no suspected deaths. Harare Province reported three cases, Mashonaland Central two, and Mashonaland East and Mashonaland each reported one. The cumulative number of suspected measles cases is now 34, with no deaths.
Common Diarrhoea: 
A total of 8,464 cases of common diarrhoea were reported, with no deaths. Of these, 3,358 cases were from children under 5 years old. The provinces with the highest number of cases were Mashonaland Central (1,178) and Mashonaland East (1,157). Cumulatively, there have been 35,265 cases and 17 deaths.
Malaria: 
There were 2,009 reported cases of malaria this week, along with six deaths. The highest number of cases were reported in Manicaland (824) and Mashonaland West (527). The provinces also saw several deaths, including two in Mutare District, one in Chimanimani, Buhera, Rushinga, and Makonde Districts. The cumulative figures for malaria cases are 5,710 with 17 deaths, and the cumulative case fatality rate (CFR) stands at 0.3%.
Cholera: 
This week, 24 suspected cases of cholera and one suspected death were reported. The majority of suspected cases (23) were from Mazowe District. Cumulative figures for cholera now stand at 107 suspected cases, with one suspected death, but no confirmed cases or deaths.
Dysentery: 
A total of 545 dysentery cases were reported, with no deaths. Mashonaland Central and Mashonaland West provinces reported the highest numbers of cases, with 114 and 97, respectively. The cumulative total for dysentery cases is now 2,416, with one death.
Typhoid: 
No suspected cases or deaths from typhoid were reported this week. The cumulative total for suspected typhoid cases remains at two, with no deaths, resulting in a cumulative CFR of 0%.

The Health Ministry says many people in Zimbabwe are getting sick. 

- Thousands of people have flu and colds, but no one has died. 
- Some kids have measles, but no kids have died. 
- Lots of people have diarrhea, and sadly, 17 people have died. 
- Malaria is also a big problem, with 17 people dead. 
- There are only a few cases of cholera and dysentery, but one person died from dysentery. 
- Thankfully, there are no cases of typhoid.

Everyone should try to stay healthy and wash their hands to avoid getting sick.

Health Ministry Reports Spike In Malaria And Diarrhoea Cases

The dire state of Zimbabwe’s healthcare system was starkly exposed last week following a tragic bus accident in Beitbridge.
Victims of the crash, which resulted in 25 fatalities and dozens of injuries, were photographed at a local hospital with broken bones held together by makeshift casts made from cardboard, sellotape, and cloth.
The accident occurred last Thursday when a speeding Beitbridge-bound Urban Connect bus collided head-on with a haulage truck carrying magnesium to Chirundu near the Lutumba toll gate on the Beitbridge-Masvingo highway.
Images shared online depicted the victims lying helplessly while medical staff, working tirelessly, tried to save lives under incredibly difficult conditions.
Transport Minister Felix Tapiwa Mhona, Local Government Minister Daniel Garwe, and Matabeleland South Provincial Minister Eveline Ndlovu visited Beitbridge District Hospital, where they were photographed with the accident victims.
The sight of accident victims’ limbs being held together with cardboard and tape during a photo op was widely condemned as a heartless public relations stunt.
Further investigation revealed that the Urban Connect bus was operating without a valid route permit, and the driver did not have a valid retest certificate.
Renowned lawyer and former Mt Pleasant MP, Advocate Fadzayi Mahere, sharply criticized the government for neglecting the health sector. She said:
<blockquote>
We are not letting this healthcare issue go. Why is the practice of using makeshift cardboard boxes to treat fractures so widespread in our public hospitals? Where is the dignity?
Surely, you must all resign. This level of incompetence borders on the criminal. It’s a mess. We need new leaders.
</blockquote>
In another post on X on Sunday, February 16, 2025, Mahere criticized the government for its failure to provide basic supplies in hospitals. She wrote:
<blockquote>
They promised us affordable, quality healthcare. Instead, they have given us cardboard boxes to use as casts to treat fractures, no clean water in public hospitals, torn hospital beds and no medication. It’s a mess.
</blockquote>
ZANU PF loyalist Kudzai Mutisi, based in South Africa, also weighed in, criticizing his own party’s ministers as ineffective and incapable of providing even the most basic services to the people. He said:
<blockquote>
A Cabinet Minister is witnessing FIRST HAND how his colleague in the Ministry of Health and Child Care has FAILED to do simple things. Felix Mhona will leave the hospital and SAY NOTHING about a dysfunctional system he witnessed.
In fact, he might join the 2030ists asking for more time to play. If you can’t do it now, then you certainly won’t do it even if given 40 more years. The current team of ministers lacks urgency and has misplaced priorities.
</blockquote>

Last week, a bus accident in Zimbabwe left 25 people dead and many injured. Photos showed victims in the hospital with broken bones held together by cardboard, tape, and cloth. The bus was operating without the proper permits and the driver did not have a valid certificate. Many people, including a lawyer and a ZANU PF loyalist, criticized the government for neglecting the healthcare system. They said the use of makeshift casts was unacceptable and that new leaders were needed to fix the problems in hospitals. The sight of accident victims with cardboard casts sparked outrage among the public.

Pictures Of Hospitalised Urban Connect Bus Accident Victims In "Cardboard Casts" Spark Public Outrage

Finance and Economic Development Minister Mthuli Ncube has said the government will rely on locally generated revenue to sustain the health sector following the withdrawal of key external funding, reported <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/zim-turns-to-local-resources-to-fund-health-sector-amid-us-funding-withdrawal/">The Herald</a>.
Recently, the United States suspended funding for vital health programs, including HIV interventions under the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).
PEPFAR, the leading funder of HIV programs, had committed US$210 million to Zimbabwe in 2024 and an additional US$200 million for the period from October 2024 to September 2025.
To offset this loss, Ncube said that the government plans to use “sin taxes”—levies on alcohol, cigarettes, fast food, and sugary beverages—to support the health sector. He said:
<blockquote>
We have quite a portfolio of various taxes that will be applied towards the budget needs of the health sector.
Of course, the actions taken by certain donors to withdraw funding put pressure on us, but with the resources raised from these sin taxes, we believe we can address some of the challenges.
This is a continuous budget implementation process. Where there is a need, we provide funding. I am pleased that we have a dedicated revenue stream from sin taxes that we can apply specifically to the health sector.
</blockquote>
It remains unclear how much revenue is generated through sin taxes and the AIDS Levy, and whether these funds can fill the gap left by the suspension of international aid, especially given Zimbabwe’s economic challenges and high disease burden.
Shortly after taking office in January, U.S. President Donald Trump withdrew the U.S. from the World Health Organization (WHO) and suspended foreign assistance for 90 days as part of a shift in foreign aid policy.
It is uncertain what will happen after the 90 days, including whether U.S. funding will be halted or resumed, and under what conditions.

Zimbabwe is facing a problem because the United States is no longer giving money to help with healthcare. To make up for this, the government is going to tax things like alcohol, cigarettes, and fast food to get money for healthcare. The US had given a lot of money before, and now that it's gone, Zimbabwe needs to find other ways to pay for important programs, like those that help with HIV. It's not clear how much money these new taxes will bring in, or if it will be enough to help with all the health problems in Zimbabwe.

Zimbabwe Turns To "Sin Taxes" To Fund Health Sector After U.S. Cuts Aid

The Population Solutions for Health (PSH) New Start Centre in Harare’s CBD has temporarily stopped some of its services.
Patients who need ART (HIV treatment) or PrEP (HIV prevention) refills won’t be able to get them at the centre for now.
On Thursday, the centre was only offering HIV testing. Other services like family planning and cervical cancer screening were also put on hold.
A notice at the entrance advised people to go to their local clinics for the services they need. It reads:
<blockquote>
Please note that the New Start Centre is temporarily closed. For those due for (Antiretroviral Treatment) ART or PrEP refills, please proceed to the nearest city health clinic for assistance. Thank you for understanding.
</blockquote>
PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a medicine that helps people at high risk of getting HIV from not getting infected.
According to officials at the New Start Centre who spoke to <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/new-start-centre-suspends-art-prep-refills/">NewZimbabwe</a>, the only service available right now is HIV testing.
Normally, the centre offers various health services like HIV testing, PrEP, TB screening and treatment, cervical cancer screening and treatment, birth control, and STI screening and treatment.
The suspension of the services follows the recent 90-day suspension of USAID funding resulting from the implementation of President Donald Trump’s America First policy.
The US helps Zimbabwe fight HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases by providing money for things like condoms and antiretroviral drugs used in local hospitals.

The New Start Centre in Harare has stopped giving HIV treatment and prevention services for now. Patients can only get HIV testing. People needing ART or PrEP should go to their local clinic. PrEP is a medicine that stops people from getting HIV. The US stopped funding for HIV services in Zimbabwe for 90 days. This affects things like condoms and drugs used to treat HIV in local hospitals. The centre normally offers many health services like HIV testing, TB screening, and family planning.

New Start Centre Suspends ART, PrEP Services

By Gaylord Munemo
Zimbabwe’s development landscape has been rocked by the imminent removal of USAID support, which might undo hard-won progress in economic stability, food security, and public health.
The threat of USAID’s withdrawal has exposed the institutional flaws and systemic vulnerabilities that have long impeded Zimbabwe’s pursuit of sustainable development, as the nation’s delicate development ecosystem teeters on the verge of collapse.
The expansion of antiretroviral therapy (ART) coverage in Zimbabwe has been made possible in large part by USAID’s flagship program, the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).
By 2023, about 1.2 million people which is more than 90% of the nation’s ART-eligible population had received ART support from PEPFAR.
Withdrawing USAID funding would probably cause ART coverage to drop sharply, endangering the lives of hundreds of thousands of Zimbabweans living with HIV/AIDS.
According to USAID’s Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) program, Zimbabwe’s HIV prevalence rate has declined from 14.3% in 2010 to 12.9% in 2020. However, this progress is fragile and reversible. 
The HIV/AIDS Program Index (HAPI), a composite measure of HIV/AIDS program performance, would likely decline precipitously in the absence of USAID funding.
This, in turn, would exacerbate the HIV/AIDS epidemic, undermining Zimbabwe’s progress towards achieving the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets.
In regards to maternal and child health, maternal mortality rates decreased from roughly 614 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2010 to about 462 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2024 as a result of USAID’s efforts.
Thanks to USAID’s assistance with vaccine campaigns, the immunization coverage for children under one-year-old rose from over 80% in 2013 to over 90% by 2023.
Zimbabwe’s food security situation would be significantly impacted if USAID aid were to be discontinued.
In Zimbabwe, increasing agricultural productivity, expanding market access, and improving nutrition outcomes have all been made possible by USAID’s Feed the Future (FtF) program.
More than 1.5 million metric tons of maize have been produced thanks to FtF as of 2022, surpassing the nation’s production goals.
However, Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector would probably see a sharp drop in production without USAID financing, endangering the nation’s food security position.
The Global Hunger Index (GHI) would likely deteriorate in the absence of USAID funding. Zimbabwe’s GHI score has improved from 19.1 in 2010 to 15.3 in 2020, indicating a moderate level of hunger.
However, a withdrawal of USAID funding would likely reverse this progress, exacerbating hunger and malnutrition in Zimbabwe and likely affecting the Human Development Index (HDI) which had improved from 0.51 in 2010 to 0.57 in 2020, indicating a moderate level of human development.
Can the Government manage without USAID? With a sizable amount of the budget going towards debt servicing and ongoing expenses, Zimbabwe’s budgetary space is severely limited.
The nation’s capacity to raise domestic funds to cover USAID’s funding shortfall would be hampered by its budget deficit.
Inadequate technical know-how, ineffective mechanisms, and a lack of human resources define Zimbabwe’s institutional capacity to oversee and carry out development initiatives.
Ineffectiveness, corruption, and a lack of transparency afflict the nation’s public financial management (PFM) systems, which are essential for efficient resource allocation and use.
Moreover, Zimbabwe’s development frameworks and policies, such as the Zimbabwe National Development Strategy (NDS1), lack clear prioritization, coordination, and resource allocation mechanisms.
Achieving sustainable development results depends on Zimbabwe’s capacity to move from a donor-dependent to a self-sustaining development model, according to USAID’s Development Assistance Framework (DAF).
Failure to solve the aforementioned issues, however, will make it more difficult for the nation to fill the financing shortfall that USAID might leave in 2025, endangering development achievements and threatening the nation’s chances for sustainable development.

The USA is thinking of stopping giving money to Zimbabwe. This will affect the country's progress in helping people with HIV, keeping kids healthy, and growing enough food. The USA helps Zimbabwe with medicine, vaccines, and farming. Without the USA's help, many people will suffer. Zimbabwe needs to find ways to get money on its own. If they cannot, they might go back to struggling like before. It's important for Zimbabwe to learn how to take care of itself without always needing help from other countries.

Beyond The Edge of Oblivion: The Threat Of USAID's Withdrawal

The Ministry of Health and Child Care has released the weekly disease surveillance report for the week ending January 19, 2025.
According to the Ministry, a total of 6,958 cases of common diarrhoea were reported, resulting in 6 deaths. The fatalities occurred in various regions: 2 at Sally Mugabe Hospital in Harare, 1 in Bikita District (Masvingo), 1 in Mutoko District (Mashonaland East), 1 in Mazowe District (Mashonaland Central), and 1 in Kwekwe District (Midlands). Among the reported cases, 3,040 were in children under the age of 5. The provinces with the highest case numbers were Manicaland (1,029) and Mashonaland West (988). Cumulatively, there have been 19,441 cases and 12 deaths related to common diarrhoea.
In the case of malaria, 1,048 new cases and 5 deaths were reported. The fatalities were spread across Mutare District (Manicaland), Sanyati District (Mashonaland West), Chiredzi District (Masvingo), and two hospitals in Harare—Sally Mugabe Hospital and Parirenyatwa Hospital. Of the malaria cases, 12.5% (131 cases) were in children under five years old. The highest numbers were reported in Manicaland (665 cases) and Mashonaland West (133 cases). Cumulative figures for malaria stand at 2,186 cases and 9 deaths.
Anthrax cases were reported in Gokwe North District (5 cases), Gokwe South District (1 case), and Sanyati District (1 case). There were no reported deaths, and cumulative figures for anthrax cases are now 19, with no fatalities.
Measles saw 4 new suspected cases, with reports coming from Mashonaland West (1 case), Mashonaland East (1 case), and Harare Metropolitan Province (2 cases). The total number of suspected measles cases is now 12, with no deaths.
There were 471 dysentery cases reported, along with 1 death from Hurungwe District in Mashonaland West. The highest case numbers were recorded in Mashonaland Central (108 cases) and Mashonaland West (82 cases). Cumulative cases for dysentery stand at 1,405, with 1 fatality.
One suspected typhoid case was reported, with no deaths. The cumulative number of suspected typhoid cases is now 2, with no deaths.
A total of 18 mumps cases were reported, with no fatalities. The highest number of cases came from Mashonaland West (6 cases), followed by Mashonaland East (3 cases) and Masvingo (3 cases). Cumulative figures for mumps are 41 cases, with no deaths.
There were no reported cases of Mpox this week, and the cumulative figures remain at zero.
A total of 736 dog bite cases were reported, with no fatalities. Of these, 180 were bitten by vaccinated dogs, 154 by unvaccinated dogs, and 402 by dogs of unknown vaccination status. Masvingo Province recorded the highest number of dog bite cases (124), followed by Manicaland (107). The cumulative total for dog bites is now 2,049, with no deaths, resulting in a case fatality rate (CFR) of 0%.
In terms of cholera, 13 suspected cases were reported, with no deaths. The suspected cases were from Mazowe District (12 cases) in Mashonaland Central and Kariba District (1 case) in Mashonaland West. The cumulative total for cholera now stands at 85 suspected cases and 1 suspected death.
Finally, influenza cases have risen to 2,535, with no reported deaths. Manicaland recorded the highest number of cases (847), followed by Mashonaland West (704). The cumulative number of suspected influenza cases is now 6,868, with no fatalities.

In the news, the Ministry of Health reported that there were many cases of diarrhoea, malaria, and other diseases in Zimbabwe. Over 6,900 cases of diarrhoea and 1,048 cases of malaria were recorded. Some people died, especially children. Other diseases like anthrax, measles, dysentery, typhoid, mumps, and dog bites were also reported, but no deaths. Cases of influenza also increased. In total, there were many sick people, but not many people died from these diseases. The Ministry is working to stop the diseases from spreading.

Weekly Disease Surveillance: Over 6,900 Diarrhoea Cases And 1,048 Malaria Cases Recorded

The National AIDS Council (NAC) said that Zimbabwe has enough antiretroviral (ARV) drugs for the 1.2 million people on antiretroviral therapy (ART), despite the U.S. freezing aid through USAID.
This freeze is part of broader cuts to the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and other international funding.
PEPFAR has been the largest funder of Zimbabwe’s HIV response, committing US$210 million for 2024 and US$200 million from October 2024 to September 2025.
In an interview with <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/zim-has-enough-arvs-in-stock-nac">The Sunday Mail</a>, NAC CEO Dr. Bernard Madzima reassured people on ART not to panic, saying the country has sufficient ARVs to meet current needs. Said Madzima:
<blockquote>
I want to assure the nation and everyone that there are enough ARVs in the country. At this stage, there is no need to panic. Anyone who needs ARVs needs to go to the facility where they collect their ARVs and they will get services.
This current scenario, at this stage, has not affected the service delivery of ARVs. But as a country, we need strategies to deal with the possible scenarios in the future so that we cover that gap, and that gap should not lead to anyone not getting treatment.
And I am sure you read from the Central Government that as a country we stand by prioritising health and making sure that anyone who needs treatment will get the treatment that they need.
</blockquote>
Madzima stressed the importance of continuing to mobilise resources to ensure the success of Zimbabwe’s HIV prevention programs.
He noted that funds from the AIDS levy, a 3% tax on corporate profits and personal income for HIV/AIDS programs, are “limited.” Said Madzima:
<blockquote>
The AIDS levy is a very limited resource. Remember that part of it is collected in local currency and it’s difficult to then buy things from outside the country.
So, it will not be able to cater to all the shortfalls that will happen in the health sector…
So, we can only stretch it up to a point. It’s not an infinite resource; it’s very limited.
</blockquote>

Zimbabwe has enough ARVs for the 1.2 million people on ART, even though the U.S. froze aid. PEPFAR was a big funder but is now cutting funds. NAC reassured people that there is no need to panic, as there are enough ARVs in the country. The CEO said they will continue to prioritize health and treatment for those in need. However, the funding from the AIDS levy is limited and may not cover all the needs. They need to keep finding ways to support HIV prevention programs to be successful.

"Zimbabwe Has Enough ARVs In Stock"

The U.S. government has said President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration must take full responsibility for the health of Zimbabweans, including procuring anti-retroviral therapy and ensuring clinics are properly staffed with nurses.
Reports indicate that since Zimbabwe gained independence in 1980, the U.S. has provided over US$5 billion in humanitarian and development assistance, including more than $1 billion in the past three years alone.
The United States remains the largest provider of development and humanitarian aid, with key initiatives like the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), the President’s Malaria Initiative (PMI), and the Feed the Future Hunger and Food Security Program.
However, the Trump administration recently suspended donor support globally. The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) is now working to strengthen its health, development, and cultural exchange programs.
In a statement released Wednesday, the U.S. Embassy in Zimbabwe confirmed that, in line with President Trump’s Executive Order on Reevaluating and Realigning U.S. Foreign Aid, Secretary Rubio has paused all U.S. foreign assistance funded by or through the State Department and USAID for review. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
Consistent with President Trump’s Executive Order on Reevaluating and Realigning United States Foreign Aid, Secretary Rubio has paused all U.S. foreign assistance funded by or through the State Department and USAID for review.
He is initiating a review of all foreign assistance programs to ensure they are efficient and consistent with U.S. foreign policy under the America First agenda.
At this moment, in order to do a thorough review, all programs and grants without a waiver approved by the Secretary of State using foreign assistance funding are paused.
It is time for Zimbabwe to take seriously its responsibility for the health of its people. For HIV, Zimbabwe has hit the 95/95/95 targets.
They urgently need to be focused on buying ART and getting nurses in clinics. They can do this.
</blockquote>

The U.S. government is telling Zimbabwe's leaders they need to take care of the people's health. The U.S. has given Zimbabwe a lot of money for health and other needs. They help with things like AIDS relief and food security. But now, the U.S. is stopping some of this support to review how it's being used. Zimbabwe needs to buy medicine and have enough nurses in clinics. They have made progress in fighting HIV, but there is still work to do. It's up to Zimbabwe to make sure their people stay healthy.

The Health Of Your People Is Your Responsibility, U.S. Tells Zimbabwe's Government

The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised concerns over the U.S. government’s decision to immediately pause funding for HIV programs in low- and middle-income countries.
In a statement, WHO said these programs provide life-saving HIV therapy to more than 30 million people worldwide.
The funding pause, according to WHO, could significantly increase the risk of illness and death for those living with HIV and undermine efforts to prevent transmission within communities and countries.
WHO also warned that if the funding pause is prolonged, it could lead to a rise in new infections and deaths, potentially reversing decades of progress.  The statement reads:
<blockquote>
The World Health Organization (WHO) expresses deep concern about the implications of the immediate funding pause for HIV programmes in low- and middle-income countries.
These programmes provide access to life-saving HIV therapy to more than 30 million people worldwide. Globally, 39.9 million people were living with HIV at the end of 2023.
A funding halt for HIV programmes can put people living with HIV at immediate increased risk of illness and death and undermine efforts to prevent transmission in communities and countries.
Such measures, if prolonged, could lead to rises in new infections and deaths, reversing decades of progress and potentially taking the world back to the 1980s and 1990s when millions died of HIV every year globally, including many in the United States of America.
For the global community, this could result in significant setbacks to progress in partnerships and investments in scientific advances that have been the cornerstone of good public health programming, including innovative diagnostics, affordable medicines, and community delivery models of HIV care.
We call on the United States Government to enable additional exemptions to ensure the delivery of lifesaving HIV treatment and care.
<h2>PEPFAR’s legacy and current risks</h2>
The United States President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) has been a flagship initiative of the global HIV response since its establishment over 20 years ago.
The current funding pause for PEPFAR will have a direct impact on millions of lives that depend on the predictable supply of safe and effective antiretroviral treatment.
PEPFAR works in over 50 countries around the world. Over the past two decades, PEPFAR funding has saved more than 26 million lives.
Currently, PEPFAR is providing HIV treatment for more than 20 million people living with HIV globally, including 566,000 children under 15 years of age.
Over the past year, PEPFAR and partners, including WHO, have been working on sustainability plans with countries for greater country ownership and reduced donor support up to and beyond 2030.
A sudden and prolonged stop to programmes does not allow for a managed transition and puts the lives of millions at risk.
WHO is committed to support PEPFAR and other partners, as well as national governments, in managing change processes effectively to minimize the impact on people living with HIV.
</blockquote>

The World Health Organization is worried because the U.S. government paused funding for HIV programs in other countries. These programs help 30 million people get life-saving HIV therapy. The pause could make more people sick or die and might lead to more new infections. Without funding, progress in fighting HIV could go back to the 1980s and 1990s when many people died from the virus. The WHO wants the U.S. to keep supporting HIV programs to save lives. The President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) is also affected by the funding pause, putting millions of lives at risk.

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