adminThe Herald, July 7, 1990
MEMBERS of the Zimbabwe Army Medical Corps were yesterday praised for their professional, patriotic and compassionate role during the recent strikes by doctors and nurses.
In his remarks during the opening of a one-day seminar for the medical corps at 1 Commando, the Army Commander, Lieutenant-General Tapfumaneyi Mujuru, said: “As you are well aware, Zimbabwe has been plagued by industrial actions, but you have shown your support for Government by being available at the most crucial time, when many of your fellow Zimbabweans, brothers, sisters could have died because of the industrial action.”
Some nurses went on strike in October 1982, doctors in 1989 and many medical workers, including junior nurses and some doctors, in April 1990. On each of these occasions army personnel assisted in the hospitals.
“Your tireless effort and performance during the last industrial action, despite the various constraints you faced, is highly commendable.
“I strongly hope that your good example will be an eye-opener to other civil (service) employees, especially your health counterparts and to other health workers in various sectors,” the Army Commander said.
In his opening address to the participants, the Secretary for Health, Dr Daniel Makuto, thanked the army medical corps for displaying “exemplary professionalism, compassion and ethical discipline” during the strikes.
The strikes by doctors, nurses and other medical professions threatened to bring services to a halt.
This would have resulted in tremendous suffering and loss of life, had it not been for the timely intervention of the army medical corps. – Ziana.
LESSONS FOR TODAY
- The Zimbabwe Defence Forces has a number of branches that work and complement each other in ensuring that the defence forces effectively discharge its duties.
- In addition to ensuring that the country is adequately protected during war and peace times, the army, through its various divisions, also helps communities across the country.
- As part of that programme, the Zimbabwe Defence Forces undertake a week of community service every year ahead of the Defence Forces Day.
- During that week, the ZDF offers free medical services and also take part in construction of things like clinics, hospitals and schools that assist communities in need.
Online Reporter