Presidential Emergency Medical Scheme brings hope to rural areas

 

Tendai Gukutikwa
Post Reporter

THE launch of the Presidential Emergency Medical Scheme in Manicaland has brought new found hope to thousands of vulnerable and impoverished rural villagers, who have silently suffered from chronic illnesses that have ravaged their bodies and drained their spirits.

For far too long, marginalised rural communities have been forced to endure the cruel hand of fate, their health woes exacerbated by the scarcity of medical resources, prohibitive costs of treatment, and the daunting distances to healthcare facilities.

However, with the launch of the Presidential Emergency Medical Scheme by Defence Minister, Honourable Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri in Mutasa last Saturday, their fortunes have finally changed.

This programme underscores Government’s unwavering commitment to the well-being of its citizens, especially those in rural areas who have historically been disadvantaged.

Thousands of villagers in Mutasa received free medical consultations, screenings, and medication last Saturday.

Among them was Mbuya Patricia Nyamutonho (75), of Gatsi Village, who was overcome with emotion as she clutched a small plastic bag containing free diabetes and blood pressure medication – a treatment she had long desired, but could not afford.

She expressed her gratitude, saying she had prayed for such assistance, but could not afford it on her own.

“I have gone for months using boiled guava leaves to control my sugar levels because I could not afford this medicine. Today, I received a medical examination and the medication I need. What kind of miracle is this?” she quipped, her frail voice trembling.

Mbuya Nyamutonho was among thousands of villagers, mostly elderly, from Mutasa, who gathered at St James Zongoro High School, for the official launch of the PEMS — led by Discovery Ambulance Services (DAS), in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Child Care.

For her, the journey from Honde Valley was worth it.

“I am in constant knee pain and sometimes I fall, but I told my grandson I would attend, even if I had to crawl. This programme is a God-send, and I am grateful to President Mnangagwa for remembering the poor, elderly folks,” she said.

Another beneficiary, Sekuru Never Mandeya (72), from Mandeya Village, diagnosed with high blood pressure years ago, shared his story.

“I have been off medication since 2020, and had resigned myself to an early death. I would feel dizzy, my heart racing, and I would sweat throughout the night, even in the cold. But today, I saw a real doctor, received tablets, had my blood pressure checked, and got dietary advice,” he said.

Beaming, Sekuru Mandeya held up his medication packet, surrounded by fellow villagers who had received treatment for various ailments, including diabetes, hypertension, arthritis, eyesight problems, and fatigue.

“We will live longer now, and can help raise our grandchildren a little while longer. I will pray for President Mnangagwa, the doctors, and everyone who brought us this gift,” he said.

As the elderly shared stories and compared their medication packets, a team of doctors, nurses from the Ministry of Health and Child Care, and first aid trainers from DAS attended to a steady stream of patients.

 

The event featured a full medical team, including doctors, nurses, and emergency responders.

They provided free services to thousands, treating common chronic conditions like hypertension, diabetes, arthritis, and eye problems.

 

Children were vaccinated, while expectant and nursing mothers received maternal health support.

 

Furthermore, over 400 villagers were trained in basic first aid and received certificates, empowering rural communities to manage emergencies until professional medical help arrives.

Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri said the programme demonstrates Government’s commitment to health equity, and its determination to ensure no one and no place is left behind.

“This programme shows that President Mnangagwa’s mantra of leaving no one and no place behind is alive and well. We are making sure that even in the most remote corners of Manicaland, people can access quality emergency medical care,” she said.

Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri said the initiative directly aligns with Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy (NDS1), which prioritise universal access to health services as part of building an upper-middle-income economy.

“Under President Mnangagwa’s leadership, we are laying the foundations of a modern, people-centred healthcare system. Healthcare is a fundamental right. Through initiatives like this, we are proving that no place is too far and no citizen is too forgotten. This is the Second Republic in action,” said Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri.

She also praised DAS chief executive officer, Mr David Munowenyu, for spearheading the initiative, and urged other players in the private sector to emulate his efforts.

“I challenge other Zimbabweans and businesspeople to emulate Mr Munowenyu. This is not about politics — but this is about saving lives,” said Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri.

Mr Munowenyu said the outreach was only the beginning.

“We have treated over 10 000 people across the country since May 2024, and trained over 20 000 in first aid. Our mission is simple — to save lives. Every life matters and every second counts,” said Mr Munowenyu, adding that the purpose for the scheme is to ensure that every citizen, regardless of their location and circumstances, accesses quality emergency medical services.

“We are very grateful for Government for prioritising the health of the people through public-private partnerships. I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to President Mnangagwa, the ministry, DAS staff and all partners here to provide health and safety services to all of you. We are here to make a difference,” he said.

Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza, echoed the same sentiments, saying the initiative reflects the Second Republic’s practical commitment to community well-being.

“This outreach programme is breaking barriers. People no longer need to walk long distances to seek medical help. Healthcare is being brought to their doorsteps,” he said.

The outreach initiative has been warmly received across Manicaland Province, with leaders from other districts expressing hope that it will soon be extended to their communities as well.

ZANU PF Makoni District Coordinating Committee (DCC) secretary for health, Cde Tariro Faith Mhondiwa said the programme was living proof that sustainable and national development goals were taking root at grassroots.

“This initiative is a clear demonstration that Vision 2030 is no longer just a policy on paper, it is unfolding before our eyes and transforming lives. We are eagerly awaiting its roll-out in Makoni District, just as it has brought relief and dignity to our brothers and sisters in other parts of Manicaland. Under the leadership of President Mnangagwa, no community and no citizen will be left behind,” she said.