adminFaith Mandizha and Nicole Chiimba
THE Japanese Embassy yesterday donated a PCR machine, which tests tuberculosis and Covid-19.
The machine was handed over through the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS).
Japanese Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Satoshi Tanaka, said the machine will be stationed at Nyanga District Hospital.
“This new machine will improve the testing capacity and effective treatment and diagnosis of patients will be improved.
“As well as the testing of Covid-19, it will also allow the testing of other infections, such as tuberculosis.
“The GeneXpert machine provides rapid results and is easy to use.
“It is also widely used by the Ministry of Health and Child Care, allowing the sharing of resources.
“Supporting the country’s healthcare system to achieve Universal Health Coverage and ‘leave no one behind’ is one of the pillars of Japan’s cooperation with Zimbabwe,” he said.
He said UNOPS attaches high importance to training, as a key component of the project, because no system can be properly operated and maintained, without the training of those who actually handle it.
“I believe that this machine will make the population served by Nyanga District Hospital more resilient to future outbreaks of diseases,” he said.
The machine allows early detection of disease as well as giving people the best chance for survival.
“Japan has relied on the expertise and skills of UN agencies, including UNOPS, in a number of humanitarian emergencies in Zimbabwe.
“Japans’ support through this project and the PCR machine we are handing over will further contribute to ensuring universal health coverage in Zimbabwe, and a health system that is robust enough to withstand future crises, so that children, mothers, families and communities across Zimbabwe will be protected.”
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter