Chronicle Editor
Michelle Moyo,
THE National Social Security Authority (NSSA) in the Matabeleland region has provided free medical checkup kits, drugs, and wheelchairs to scores of vulnerable individuals as part of its corporate social responsibility initiative.
This past weekend the initiative was in Tsholotsho as part of its corporate social responsibility aimed at improving the lives of the vulnerable.
Tsholotsho is a rural district in Matabeleland North Province, which has been affected by poverty, drought, and limited access to healthcare services.
The district has a high prevalence of chronic diseases, such as hypertension and diabetes, and a significant number of people living with disabilities.
NSSA’s donation of free medical check-ups, drugs, and wheelchairs is a timely intervention that aims to bridge this gap and improve the health and wellbeing of vulnerable individuals and communities in Tsholotsho.
By targeting this area, NSSA is demonstrating its commitment to reaching out to marginalised communities and making a positive impact on their lives.
NSSA Matabeleland regional manager Ms Sithatshisiwe Khumalo said 339 people from the Tsholotsho community consulted NSSA doctors this past weekend.
The organisation donated new wheelchairs, 39 crutches and other accessories, 15 walking sticks, two walking frames, crutch rubber tips and several other items.
“We are thrilled to give back to the community through this initiative. Our mandate goes beyond providing social security benefits, and we are committed to making a positive impact on the lives of vulnerable individuals and communities.
“This donation is a testament to our dedication to corporate social responsibility and our desire to improve the health and wellbeing of our citizens,” said Ms Khumalo.
Similar initiatives have been carried out in Filabusi, Maphisa, Lupane, Gwanda, Hwange, and Victoria Falls , addressing various health concerns except for tooth extractions.
“All illnesses and ailments were addressed apart from tooth extractions. Mostly chronic diseases such as BP, heart problems, muscular and skeletal diseases, general coughs and allergies were attended to.”
Ms Khumalo further outlined that they worked closely with community leaders such as councilors and village heads in mobilising and identifying needy cases.
“We started with Matabeleland South in Filabusi, Maphisa and then Tsholotsho in Matabeleland North.
“It then ended with a Roadshow and CSR mobile clinic in Tsholotsho over the past weekend, “said Ms Khumalo.
Ms Khumalo said they were overwhelmed with the support they got from various communities.
“NSSA intends to continue doing these programmes to cover most parts of the country with the primary focus on outlining areas where traditional communication channels are a challenge.”
-@Lo7246Lovelyn
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