Online Reporter
Lovemore Kadzura
Post Reporter
THE Government’s sustained investment in healthcare provision is yielding positive results, as evidenced by the recent restoration of Rusape General Hospital’s main theatre, which was non-functional for over a decade.
The latest positive development follows the decision by Government to deploy the first-ever specialist doctor — a gynecologist — to the hospital as part of efforts to decentralise essential health services and enhance accessibility.
The reopening of the main theatre after a 10-year hiatus, has significantly improved healthcare delivery, enabling patients to access specialist surgeries locally, thereby eliminating the need for transfers to Mutare or Harare.
Since its reopening, the hospital has successfully performed several critical surgeries, including Caesarean sections, hysterectomies, and orthopedic procedures.
Patients from Makoni previously had to travel to Mutare or other provinces to access these services, but the tide has since changed with the hospital now luring some patients from neighbouring districts like Nyanga, Buhera, Wedza, and Murehwa.
The restoration of Rusape General Hospital theatre is part of Government’s broader efforts to expand healthcare infrastructure under the National Development Strategy (NDS1) and Vision 2030.
The initiative involves the rehabilitation of hospitals and clinics nationwide, as well as the construction of new facilities, and the upgrading of medical equipment to ensure that communities have access to quality healthcare services without having to travel long distances.
Rusape General Hospital medical superintendent, Dr Stewart Karembo said the demand for gynecological services has been overwhelmingly positive, motivating them to continue advocating for the deployment of additional specialist doctors at the hospital.
“Our main hospital theatre was non-functional for over a decade, but it is now fully operational. The gynecologist is utilising the facility to perform surgeries, including Caesarean sections. The reopening of the main theatre has made a significant impact. Since June 30, 2025, we have successfully conducted numerous gynecological procedures, including 15 abdominal hysterectomies, five myomectomies, and seven cervical cerclages, among others.”
“In the past, these cases would have been referred to Mutare. However, we are now providing services to patients from beyond Makoni District, including Buhera, Nyanga, Hwedza, and Macheke. We will continue to advocate for the deployment of additional specialist doctors and services to the hospital, ensuring that patients receive timely and accessible medical attention close to their homes,” said Dr Karembo.
Specialist obstetrician and gynecologist, Dr Elton Sangurayi, who joined Rusape General Hospital in June, said the main theatre is already making a significant impact.
“We have performed several hysterectomies, a procedure involving the removal of the uterus through either an abdominal incision or the birth canal, thereby avoiding any visible scarring on the abdomen. We have successfully completed over 15 such procedures since commencing operations.
“Fortunately, the hospital has provided us with adequate resources and sufficient time to perform these surgeries. We operate on Mondays and Wednesdays, with support from staff at Orosabe General Hospital and Victoria’s Table Hospital in Tarik.
Additionally, we are receiving assistance from anesthetist, Dr Kawome.
Thankfully, all the operations we have performed thus far have been successful,” said Dr Sangurayi.
The availability of life-saving surgeries at the newly restored theatre has instilled a sense of gratitude and hope among patients.
ZANU PF Makoni District Coordinating Committee (DCC) secretary for health, Ms Tariro Mhondiwa commended Government for introducing specialist services, noting that the intervention could not have come at a better time.
“The deployment of a specialist gynecologist at Rusape General Hospital is a significant milestone in our quest for universal access to health, particularly for poor women who often bear the brunt of limited healthcare options. This specialist service has, not only improved health outcomes, but also alleviated the financial burden associated with seeking medical attention in distant locations. We now call upon Government to deploy other specialists at our district referral hospital to further strengthen our healthcare system,” said Ms Mhondiwa.
Ms Mary Nyatanga had this to say: “When referred, one would often be placed on a waiting list, resulting in many women suffering and dying from treatable diseases. The fact that the gynecologist is based at a public hospital makes these services more accessible and affordable for the majority. Unfortunately, many women are silently suffering from cervical cancer due to a lack of screening services. We hope to see specialist services expanded to all areas.”
Mrs Yvonne Mushipe shared a similar sentiment: “This is my fourth Caesarean operation, and I was apprehensive about potential complications. However, I am relieved to say that the operation was successful, and I have a healthy baby. I am grateful that I did not have to be transferred to Mutare or Harare, and could give birth closer home.”
Another patient, Ms Mavis Chakanyuka, added: “I am from Headlands, and this hospital is our referral centre. I was impressed by the professionalism of the staff, and my operation was successful. Although I was in a critical condition when I arrived, I received the necessary care and attention.”
