Ruwa recruits midwives

The polyclinic and Ruwa Clinic — administered by Goromonzi Rural District Council — were shut down several weeks ago by the Health Professions Authority and the Nurses Council for failing to meet minimum set standards to offer maternity services.

The HPA said a maternity clinic should have at least two general nurses with midwifery qualifications and an ambulance for referrals.
Both clinics failed to meet these standards. Ruwa Local Board chairman Mr Pinius Mushayavanhu said although the authorities were yet to provide them with a written report on their findings, they had recruited two midwives to run the institution.

“We are still hopeful that they will provide us with a written report so that we know exactly what needs to be actioned, Mr Mushayavanhu said.

HPA’s secretarygeneral Mr J Mapisire said they had the right to shut down institutions before issuing a written report.
“Once a health institution has been inspected, it is advised verbally on the noted defects pending submission of the inspection report to the registration committee of the HPA.
“The committee will then make considerations and recommendations on the defects noted.
“Thereafter the approved inspection report will be sent to the health institutions concerned,” he said.

Currently, there is no public maternity service in Ruwa and expectant mothers who cannot afford private institutions must travel to Harare, Marondera or Chitungwiza.

Mrs Winnie Runyararo of Ruwa said the closure has affected even basic maternal services such as antenatal checkups.
“Even if you are want routine check up prior to delivery, you have to go to Harare or Marondera,” she said. This works against Government’s stated aim of making reproductive health services accessible and affordable.

According to the United Nations Population Fund, about 2 500 women die every year due to pregnancy complications. Most of these deaths are attributable to three delays thus: in making a decision to visit a health facility, in reaching the facility, and in getting assistance.