Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
GOVERNMENT has reaffirmed its commitment to improving the welfare and working conditions of nurses and other healthcare professionals, as Zimbabwe marked International Nurses Day in Harare on Monday.
Speaking at commemorations held at The Avenues Clinic, Deputy Minister of Health and Child Care Sleiman Kwidini said nurses remained central to the country’s healthcare delivery system and efforts were underway to enhance their conditions of service.
“We respect our nurses and doctors and we want them to be happy when they are rendering care to patients,” he said.
Dr Kwidini said the Second Republic was committed to ensuring that no healthcare worker was left behind.
He noted that Government was engaging stakeholders to improve incentives for nurses in both public and private institutions, adding that private healthcare facilities played a complementary role in national healthcare delivery.
“We are serving one community, whether in public or private institutions. We all belong to Zimbabwe and deserve equal recognition,” he said.
The Deputy Minister also urged nurses to maintain high standards of professionalism and adhere to infection prevention measures, including the proper use of protective clothing while on duty.
He acknowledged the ongoing migration of nurses to countries such as the United Kingdom and Australia, but said Zimbabwean nurses continue to excel globally due to their dedication and professionalism.
The commemorations were held under the theme: “Our Nurses, Our Future: Empowered Nurses Save Lives.”
Principal Nursing Officer at The Avenues Clinic, Mrs Florence Ogwal, said empowering nurses through continuous training and professional development is key to strengthening healthcare systems and improving patient outcomes.
She revealed that the institution continues to invest in specialist nursing education, including the introduction of an Oncology and Palliative Care Nursing Programme in 2026.
Mrs Ogwal added that the clinic has partnered with the University of Zimbabwe and Government health institutions to train both undergraduate and postgraduate nursing practitioners.
She also highlighted milestones in patient care, including the successful treatment and discharge of premature babies weighing as little as 600 grammes.
Representing the Nurses Council of Zimbabwe, Ms Debra Kavhayi called on nurses to uphold professionalism, ethics and discipline in their work.
She warned against drug and substance abuse within the profession, saying it compromises patient safety and undermines the integrity of healthcare delivery.
“Professionalism in nursing should be reflected through conduct, appearance, discipline and attitude towards patients. Drug and substance abuse has no place within the nursing profession,” she said.
Ms Kavhayi implored healthcare institutions to strengthen staff wellness programmes, counselling services and mentorship initiatives to better support healthcare workers.
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