New hospital in Bulilima to boost healthcare access in Matabeleland South

BULILIMA in Matabeleland South is set to benefit from a new hospital, thanks to a partnership between the Government and the United Kingdom’s NMS Infrastructure Limited. The collaboration aims to enhance healthcare services and accessibility in the region.

In addition to Bulilima, the Government plans to establish hospitals in several other locations, including Manhize in Chivhu, Mashonaland East Province; Rudhanda in Zaka, Masvingo Province; Paradza in Chivi South, Masvingo Province; and additional sites in Matabeleland South Province. These efforts are part of a broader initiative to expand healthcare access and services across the country.

The initiative is designed to improve healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly in rural and under-served areas, and to strengthen the country’s healthcare infrastructure. The new hospitals are expected to offer a range of medical services, including primary care, specialised treatment, and emergency care, thereby contributing to the overall well-being of communities nationwide.

According to a statement released by the Ministry of Health and Child Care last week, Zimbabwe has partnered with NMS Infrastructure Limited to build 30×22-bed health centres and 5×60-bed district hospitals.

“The first phase of the project has so far seen 4×22-bed health centres being constructed in Stoneridge, Harare, Cowdray Park in Bulawayo, Runyararo in Chimanimani, Manicaland Province, and Mataga in Mberengwa, Midlands.

“The second phase of 22-bed health centres in Manhize in Chivhu, Mashonaland East Province, Rudhanda in Zaka, Masvingo, Paradza in Chivi South, Masvingo, and Lady Stanley in Bulilima, Matabeleland South, are under construction. The facilities will take eight months to be completed.

“Three of the four centres have been officially opened, while Mataga is expected to be commissioned by the President Cde Emmerson Mnangagwa at the appropriate time,” said the Ministry of Health in the statement.

Zimbabwe’s healthcare system has made remarkable progress in recent years, overcoming numerous challenges along the way. The country has seen significant advancements in HIV/Aids treatment, with over 70 percent of eligible patients now receiving antiretroviral therapy. Additionally, vaccination coverage has surged, with over 90 percent of children receiving essential vaccines.

Public-private partnerships have played a crucial role, bringing in much-needed investment and expertise. Innovative solutions, such as mobile health clinics and community-based healthcare programmes, have been developed to reach remote and under-served populations.

Moreover, Zimbabwe has shown a strong commitment to universal health coverage, working to expand access to healthcare services for all citizens. Through determination and resilience, healthcare workers and communities have united to tackle healthcare challenges, demonstrating the potential of the country’s healthcare system to overcome obstacles and provide quality care to its citizens.

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