College transforms surgical training in Zimbabwe

Ivan Zhakata

Herald Correspondent

The surgical training landscape in Zimbabwe has dramatically improved since the establishment of the College of Surgeons of East, Central and Southern Africa (COSECSA).

Before the college’s establishment, the country faced significant challenges, including limited resources and a shortage of trainers, hindering the development of its surgical workforce.

The college has provided valuable training opportunities and resources that have significantly benefited Zimbabwe.

It has led to a remarkable increase in the number of trained surgeons among them Orthopaedic Surgeons, Paediatric Surgeons, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons.

In a statement, the college said overally, Zimbabwe now has 205 surgeons with its fellowships, with 117 currently in training.

“Regionalised training has effectively reduced brain drain in the surgical field,” read the statement.

“More than 96 percent of COSECSA-trained surgeons remain in Zimbabwe, serving communities across various towns and cities. Previously underserved areas like Marondera, Masvingo, Chinhoyi, Gweru and Bindura now have access to specialist surgeons, reducing the need for patients to travel to larger cities for care.

“COSECSA has fostered collaboration among member countries. A platform for sharing innovative solutions and best practices has emerged, leading to effective responses to surgical challenges in Africa.”

It said this collaboration has enhanced skills and knowledge among surgical professionals throughout the region.

The college said in the early 2000s, Zimbabwe faced severe sanctions that impacted surgical training and resources.

“These sanctions restricted training abroad and limited the import of essential surgical supplies,” read the statement.

“COSECSA stepped in to provide quality training within the region, enabling Zimbabwean surgeons to gain recognised qualifications despite these obstacles. The establishment of COSECSA has profoundly transformed surgical training in Zimbabwe.

“With a growing number of qualified surgeons, high retention rates, strengthened regional collaboration, and the ability to navigate difficult circumstances, COSECSA has significantly benefited Zimbabwe’s healthcare system.

“The future looks promising as the country continues to enhance surgical care both locally and regionally.”