Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, Zimpapers Writer
RURAL communities in Bulilima District, Matabeleland South, are now a step closer to quality healthcare access following a ground-breaking Telehealth booth launched by telecommunications giant, NetOne.
The digital health facility, which was recently installed at the Ntunungwe Clinic site in Ward 17, is part of NetOne’s wider OneHealth–Telehealth Initiative, aimed at closing the healthcare gap in remote areas.
Using high-speed internet and smart medical technology, the booth allows patients to consult doctors virtually, receive real-time diagnoses, manage chronic illnesses and access health education, all without travelling long distances.
NetOne’s acting head of public relations, Mr Tatenda Makumborenga, said the company is scaling up the rollout of telehealth hubs across the Matabeleland region and beyond.
“As of July 2025, we’ve established over 20 operational telehealth sites across Zimbabwe. Three are in Matabeleland, including Plumtree and more are coming to Beitbridge and Gwanda.
“Our aim is to make digital healthcare accessible to every Zimbabwean, regardless of location,” he said.
The site selection process involves collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Child Care, local authorities and community leaders to prioritise high-need areas with limited healthcare infrastructure.
Each booth is equipped with smart health kits, secure video conferencing for remote consultations, cameras for visual diagnosis, multilingual interfaces and on-site support by trained nurses or community health workers.
Mr Makumborenga said the solution is tailored for local realities, from long travel distances and high transport costs to language barriers.
“This drastically cuts down waiting times, improves early diagnosis, and allows continuity of care.
“For many villagers, it’s the first time they can regularly see a doctor without leaving their community,” he said.
To ensure uninterrupted service, NetOne is leveraging its 4G and 5G network infrastructure, and in areas with no previous coverage, it is deploying mobile base stations for seamless connectivity.
The initiative is being implemented in sync with the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) and the broader digital health transformation agenda.
“We are also working in collaboration with local clinics and traditional leadership structures to foster community trust, adoption and sustainability.
“Our approach aligns with the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) and we are proud to be contributing towards Zimbabwe’s digital health transformation.”
@mthabisi_mthire
