Chronicle Editor
Flora Fadzai Sibanda, [email protected]
Defying the cold weather that had forced many women to seek refuge indoors, the resilient members of the Engineering Matabeleland chapter set out on a noble mission. Unfazed by the elements, they embarked on a visit to the Ingutsheni Psychiatric Hospital in Bulawayo, where they generously donated a plethora of essential goods.
Their efforts were part of the grand commemoration of International Women in Engineering Day, an annual celebration held on June 23.
With compassion in their hearts, the remarkable women bestowed upon the hospital a range of provisions, including mealie-meal, cooking oil, sugar beans, sugar, cabbage, and sanitary wear for the female patients. Over twenty dedicated women participated in this act of benevolence. Following the official handover of the donated items, they embarked on a tour of the women’s ward, engaging with patients and gaining valuable insights into the daily routines of the hospital.
The women in engineering expressed their gratitude through this generous act, a testament to their unwavering appreciation for the community’s steadfast support of women pursuing careers in the field.
Engineer Busisile Ncube, the representative for women in engineering in Matabeleland, explained that each chapter member had contributed funds towards the purchase of these essential commodities, which were then donated to the hospital.
Notably, the inclusion of sanitary wear in their donation was a symbolic gesture acknowledging that substance abuse no longer solely afflicts men but also impacts women, who now contribute to the alarming numbers at Ingutsheni.
“By undertaking this act today, we aim to support the hospital’s cause and raise awareness about drug and substance abuse. It signifies our recognition of the challenges faced by women in society and serves as an example to those within these walls that recovery is possible, and they too can pursue careers in fields traditionally dominated by men.”
Engineer Blessed Mkhetho, the acting chairperson of the Zimbabwean Engineering Institute’s Matabeleland chapter, shared their plans, extending their corporate responsibility beyond this initial donation. In addition to their benevolent act, they pledged to repair the hospital’s dilapidated pipes and buildings. Their hope is to establish an enduring connection with the hospital, making regular contributions to aid in the care of the multitude of individuals seeking assistance within its walls.
She stated: “In the near future, we will offer technical support to the hospital by installing an irrigation system in their gardens. Furthermore, we will assess the state of the buildings and provide necessary technical assistance to restore and repair the aging infrastructure present here.”
Dr Unity Chitapi, the chief occupational therapist at Ingutsheni Central Hospital, expressed deep appreciation for the generous donation, highlighting the hospital’s dire need for such support in light of the overwhelming number of patients they currently serve.
“Our male admission ward has a capacity for 90 patients, yet due to the pervasive issue of drug and substance abuse in our country, we are currently accommodating almost 200 patients. This situation presents a grave challenge, as these patients require sustenance and the opportunity to regain functionality, just like any other individual overcoming mental hurdles.”
Dr Chitapi highlighted the immense magnitude of assistance required by the hospital, underscoring the value of every act of kindness received. Given that mental health services are provided free of charge, the hospital faces its own limitations, compounded by the daunting task of caring for over 700 patients at present. – @flora_sibanda
Online Reporter