Online Reporter
Blessings Chidakwa
HEALTH and Child Care Ambassador Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa has extended her lifesaving medical outreach to Zvishavane, where thousands flocked to her state-of-the-art mobile hospital and clinic to access free health services.
The mobile hospital, equipped with an ultrasound scanner, advanced gynaecology oncology screening unit and a radiation machine, enabled local communities to undergo screening for cervical, breast and prostate cancer.
With early detection now possible, people can significantly reduce the risks associated with cancer-related deaths.
Staff from the Ministry of Health and Child Care also manned tents offering family planning services, diabetes and blood pressure checks, HIV testing and counselling, as well as treatment for minor ailments.
Held during the Munhumutapa Day celebrations in Zvishavane, where multitudes of people gathered, the outreach was both medical and educational.
Sister Primrose Masocha, a nurse on the screening team, said the initiative had been well received, with many women turning up.
“Since it started, several women have been coming and benefitting from the programme. The turnout is high,” she said.
The beneficiaries, many experiencing professional medical screening for the first time, expressed overwhelming gratitude.
Elderly women and young mothers undergoing cancer screening described the initiative as a blessing that spared them costly trips to distant hospitals.
Mrs Lindiwe Gukuta (50) said the free cervical cancer checks had opened her eyes to the importance of early screening, admitting that she had previously overlooked such services.
“It’s good to be screened so that I can benefit. We used to ignore it, but now we know better, as it is done openly and free of charge,” she said.
Another beneficiary, Tracy Ndebele, praised the awareness campaigns being rolled out nationwide, noting the wide reach of the mobile health buses.
“We were given awareness about cancer. These buses are moving around the whole country. Thanks to Amai for such a wonderful initiative,” she said.
Mrs Portia Mharakurwa (33) encouraged other women to take advantage of the opportunity.
“I urge fellow women to come and get screened free of charge. It is for our benefit and it saves lives,” she said.
Another beneficiary, Mrs Moleen Pedzisai (45), said the First Lady’s initiative was empowering women with both knowledge and access to services.
“We are being empowered as women to know our status. Early detection is key, as it helps us get treatment on time,” she said.
Mrs Esnath Chihuyo (60) expressed happiness that the programme was benefitting not only women but entire families.
“I got screened easily, and the process was smooth. I encourage every woman to seize this opportunity and get screened,” she said.
In an act of benevolence, Mother Zimbabwe also personally distributed food hampers to elderly women, extending support to vulnerable households.
The First Lady emphasised the importance of caring for senior citizens and widows in the community.
The donation brought relief and appreciation from beneficiaries, who expressed gratitude for the gesture.
A widow, Janet Nyoni, expressed relief after receiving the food hamper.
“Thank you so much for this hamper. As a widow, life is not easy, but this support gives me hope,” she said.
Granny Jane Gumbo said she felt humbled by the gesture.
“I am so grateful for this gift. May the First Lady be blessed for remembering us in our old age,” she said with a smile.
Another beneficiary, Granny Muchadada Moyo, could not hide her joy.
“I truly appreciate this kindness. May the First Lady’s generosity return to her many times over,” she remarked.
Granny Getrude Ndebele said the donation had lifted her spirits.
“This has brought joy to my heart. I am thankful that we are not forgotten,” she said.
Widow Liz Mahlaba expressed heartfelt gratitude.
“
Thank you for easing our burden. I feel encouraged knowing that the First Lady thinks of widows like me,” she said.
Granny Sarah Ncube (73) said the gesture was deeply meaningful to her.
“At my age, such help means so much. I am deeply thankful to the First Lady for her love and care,” she said.
