Bongani Ndlovu
Zimpapers Reporter
The fundraising drive for Ingutsheni Central Hospital in Bulawayo has achieved a major milestone, with over US$2.15 million raised from Government, corporate, academic, and individual contributors at a luncheon on Friday at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre.
Ingutsheni Central Hospital is a mental health referral institution and was built in 1908.
President Mnangagwa personally availed US$1 million to support the hospital, a move hailed as a strong show of commitment to improving healthcare delivery.
The President’s intervention immediately spurred further contributions, with Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister, Professor Mthuli Ncube, revealing that momentum had already been building even before the formal pledging process.
“By virtue of youe attendance alone, we have already sold seats worth US$600 000 for this luncheon,” said Prof Ncube.
Ingutsheni Central Hospital has been grappling with ageing infrastructure and increasing pressure due to rising cases of mental health conditions and substance abuse disorders.
The fundraising initiative is part of broader efforts to modernise the facility and improve service delivery, with Government and private sector partners expected to play a critical role in bridging the funding gap.
Key financial pledges for Ingutsheni Central Hospital came from a mix of government, corporate, academic, and individual contributors. Dr Kudakwashe Tagwireyi led with a donation of US$350 000, followed by Paul Tungwarara who pledged US$250 000. Obey Chimuka contributed US$150 000, while Vice President Kembo Mohadi and ZANU PF each gave US$100 000.
Economists and business leaders also stepped forward, with Finance Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube, in his personal capacity, donating US$20 000, Safeway Technology pledging US$20 000, and the MHMK Foundation (George Manyere) offering US$20 000.
Academic institutions added to the support, with the University of Zimbabwe and the National University of Science and Technology each contributing US$15 000 and Great Zimbabwe University pledging US$10 000.
Other notable donors included the ZIMRA Corporate Social Responsibility Fund (US$10 000), United Bulawayo Hospital (US$10 000), ZITF (US$10 000) and the Ministry of Defence, which gave US$5 000.
In-kind contributions and support were equally impactful.
Arise and Shine Community Development provided psycho-social support and human resources, while the Grain Millers Association pledged staple provisions for the coming year along with staff complement hampers.
Denver Investment donated a beast for relish and a stand to be raffled, valued at US$10 000 and Body Builders for ED contributed soap and towels.
Title Deeds for ED offered scholarships for five children of patients alongside early childhood development support. Nketa MP Hon. Mavunga also lent a helping hand, donating a tonne of rice and a hospital-use chatbot.
Sidumisile Mabena