Online Reporter
Sunday News Correspondent
Demonstrating a strong commitment to community well-being and support for healthcare workers, Old Mutual Zimbabwe has handed over five newly furnished call rooms at Harare Children’s Hospital, contributing to a more comfortable and supportive environment for doctors and health workers caring for children in the wards.
This donation, which includes three beds, reading desks and chairs, linen and blankets, microwave ovens, fans, cupboards, and kitchenware, represents the company’s broader commitment to community upliftment, wellness, and sustainable development in Zimbabwe.
In 2023, the Rotary Club of Harare West reached out to Old Mutual Zimbabwe to assist with the renovation of the doctors’ call rooms. This strategic collaboration between the private sector and civic organisations underscores how partnerships can deliver greater impact for communities.
Old Mutual’s Marketing, Public Affairs and Sustainability Executive Lillian Mbayiwa said: “Too often, when we think about hospitals, our focus is rightly on the patients that is their care, comfort, and recovery. But sometimes, in that noble focus, we overlook the needs of those who make that healing possible, our doctors and healthcare teams, who work tirelessly, day and night.”
Mbayiwa acknowledged the immense responsibility taken on by Harare Children’s Hospital, which operates with seven wards that have a total of 240 beds. During discussions on the recent renovations, Old Mutual learned that the doctors’ call rooms also required attention.
“As Old Mutual Zimbabwe, we chose to support the renovation of five doctors’ call rooms to create safe, comfortable, and dignified spaces where doctors can rest and recharge. This gesture conveys a message to all doctors that we see you, we appreciate you, and you deserve the dignity and comfort that reflects your dedication,” said Mubayiwa.
The improvements made to the call rooms include: Refurbishment of three existing and the addition of one new ablution facilities; five cupboards in each call room; three new beds; bed linen and blankets; reading desks and chairs; five microwaves and five fans for added comfort; new cutlery and furnishings.
“We believe that true sustainability begins with investing in the communities where we operate, creating a lasting, positive impact. When doctors are empowered and their working conditions are improved, it will result in children receiving better care, communities feeling supported, and a stronger health system for the future,” Mbayiwa added.
Old Mutual Zimbabwe continues to demonstrate its commitment to supporting healthcare institutions and promoting community well-being. In collaboration with the Eye Institute of Zimbabwe, initiated the Eye Camp programme last year, providing free cataract surgeries and eye screenings to the elderly in Manicaland. The success of this programme led to its expansion to Harare this year and other regions in the coming editions.
The company’s most recent initiative was its “Winter Warmer” campaign, which donated blankets across the nation helping provide much-needed warmth and comfort to patients in hospitals and mental health institutions, as well as the elderly and children’s homes.
