How Mine donates medical equipment worth US$18 000 to UBH

LOCAL mining company, How Mine has donated medical equipment worth US$18 000 to the United Bulawayo Hospitals (UBH) as part of efforts to complement Government initiatives aimed at strengthening the country’s healthcare system.

The donation, handed over yesterday, comprises two phototherapy machines and a compressor for the hospital’s paediatric department. The equipment is expected to enhance UBH’s capacity to treat newborn babies suffering from jaundice, particularly those born prematurely.

UBH chief medical officer Dr William Busumani welcomed the donation, describing How Mine as a long-standing stakeholder of the institution.

“How Mine has been a faithful stakeholder to the hospital for a long time and we are thrilled to receive this donation today. We appreciate the mining company’s continued commitment to giving back to the community,” said Dr Busumani.

He assured that the equipment would be properly maintained and serviced annually to ensure sustainability.
Dr Busumani also encouraged more private sector players to partner with public health institutions.

“Collaboration between industry and healthcare institutions is essential if we are to build a resilient health system that serves all citizens,” he said.

Speaking during the handover ceremony, How Mine manager Mr Ophir Gwede, who was represented by the mine’s human resources manager Mr Mlondolozi Nkomo, said the donation forms part of the company’s corporate social responsibility initiatives.

“Before making the donation, we engaged hospital authorities to understand their most urgent needs. Healthcare support is a key part of our community initiatives, as we already run and support our own health centre,” said Mr Gwede.

“We understand the importance of well-equipped hospital facilities in saving lives.”
Mr Gwede said this was not the first time the mining company had partnered with UBH, noting that How Mine had previously donated essential materials and collaborated with the hospital on other projects.

“We believe responsible mining goes beyond production. It is about being a committed partner institutions in our communities that save lives and support education,” he said.

The donation is expected to significantly improve neonatal care services at UBH, one of the country’s major referral hospitals.