Vusumuzi Dube
Robin Muchetu, Senior Reporter
HUNDREDS of Bulawayo residents yesterday benefited from a free first aid training programme which is part of the Presidential Emergency Medical Scheme meant to equip individuals with the skills to provide immediate assistance during emergencies while waiting for ambulance services.
The all-inclusive training was facilitated by Discovery Ambulance Services at the Jairos Jiri Association in Nguboyenja suburb and at Davis Hall, ensuring that individuals with disabilities also benefited from the programme.
Founder and CEO of Discovery Ambulance Services, Mr David Munowenyu emphasised the importance of the outreach initiative, which is being rolled out nationwide.
“This is our inaugural programme in Bulawayo, where we are training individuals aged 16 and above to become first aiders. Our goal is to empower everyone to respond effectively to emergencies,” he said.
Mr Munowenyu noted that the training serves as a foundational step in handling medical emergencies, whether at home or elsewhere.
“We want the community to be aware of our toll-free number, 991, ensuring they know whom to contact in case of an emergency. Our mission is to educate the public on responding to dangers and accidents,” he added.
He said the organisation also aims to train community members aspiring to become ambulance technicians, with a promise of employment upon completion — an initiative designed to create job opportunities for those who undergo the training.
Discovery Ambulance Services boasts a disaster management fleet equipped with specialised ambulances capable of transporting multiple patients.
“Our unique fleet can accommodate five individuals at a time, ensuring they receive prompt care. We are addressing the rising number of accidents in Zimbabwe, striving to provide immediate assistance. Just this morning, we responded to an accident in Bulawayo, transporting four injured individuals to Mpilo Central Hospital in one ambulance,” Mr Munowenyu noted.
He also highlighted their role in addressing the current shortage of ambulances in the country, complementing the services provided by the Government through the Ministry of Health and Child Care expressing satisfaction in fulfilling a promise made to President Mnangagwa during a meeting late last year.
A well-established entrepreneur with interests across southern Africa, Dubai, and Kuwait, Mr Munowenyu said he is committed to transforming the emergency medical sector by providing affordable, high-quality services.
“During my meeting with President Mnangagwa, I discussed my vision of investing in ambulance services that would benefit the entire nation,” he said.
Having previously worked as a sales representative for Netcare in South Africa, Mr Munowenyu’s experiences inspired his desire for a more effective healthcare system in Zimbabwe.
“This is my contribution to the nation; my goal is to ensure that Zimbabwe has world-class, efficient ambulance services,” he stated.
President Mnangagwa’s son Collins visited the training sessions to assess the training process. “Today is a significant day; this training would not have been possible without the efforts of the Discovery Ambulances CEO. It’s vital for everyone to learn basic first aid, ensuring no one is left behind,” he remarked.
The emergency vehicles, staffed by skilled personnel, stabilise patients before transferring them to hospitals or clinics. They are equipped with necessary pharmaceuticals and life-supporting equipment, including jump bags with medications and tools to address emergencies when access is hindered by obstacles.
Mr Nqobizitha Nyoni, one of the training beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn at Jairos Jiri.
“This training enables me to assist others in need. Even with my disability, I feel empowered to support my peers during emergencies,” he said. @NyembeziMu
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