Vusumuzi Dube
Sunday News Reporter
In a remarkable display of corporate responsibility and community support, TM Pick n Pay and CABS have today collaborated to donate a total of USD 150,000 worth of cancer medicines to Mpilo Hospital, a vital healthcare facility in Zimbabwe.
This significant contribution highlights the companies’ commitment to fighting cancer and improving the lives of those affected by this devastating disease.
TM Pick n Pay contributed USD 100,000, while CABS provided an additional USD 50,000. The funds for this donation were raised through the Pink Drive and Blue November cancer campaigns, which aimed to raise awareness and encourage shoppers to support cancer patients by purchasing specially designated pink and blue merchandise.
During the campaigns, CABS also pledged to donate towards cancer treatment for every swipe made on their Point of Sale (POS) machines located in TM Pick n Pay stores nationwide.
This initiative not only raised funds but also promoted a culture of awareness around cancer, especially focusing on men’s health issues.
Mpilo Hospital, recognized as Zimbabwe’s second largest public hospital, plays a crucial role in the country’s healthcare system.
It is home to the Mpilo Central Hospital’s radiotherapy unit, one of only two public facilities in Zimbabwe that provide cancer treatment. Recent statistics reveal that cancer is one of the leading health concerns in the nation, highlighting the urgent need for accessible and timely treatment options.
CABS Managing Director, Mehluli Mpofu, stressed the importance of this donation, stating, “Statistics show that cancer remains one of the leading health concerns in our country, and it was imperative that we came together to address this urgent need.”
He further noted that the resources provided not only meet immediate medical needs but also promote awareness and support for men’s health issues.Echoing this sentiment, Mr Gamuchirai Nyamuzinga, Chief Finance Officer for TM Pick n Pay, expressed the company’s commitment to community well-being.
He remarked that their initiatives, such as the Pink and Blue Month Campaign, embody their belief that “doing good is good business.” This campaign included the sale of pink cupcakes for Breast Cancer Awareness in October and blue cupcakes for Testicular Cancer in November, which raised essential funds for chemotherapy medications in support of local hospitals.
At the official handover ceremony of the donation at Mpilo Hospital, Mrs Nhoko, representing Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Judith Ncube, praised TM Pick n Pay and CABS for their collaborative efforts in promoting early detection and treatment of cancer. She stated, “This collaborative initiative exemplifies the power of partnership, showcasing what can be accomplished when organizations, businesses, and the community join forces for a shared goal.”
Mrs. Nhoko emphasized the need for ongoing vigilance in the fight against cancer, advocating for increased awareness, research support, and improved healthcare services.
“Together, through unified action, we can forge a future where affordable treatment options are accessible to all,” she concluded.
The event was attended by medical practitioners and community members, all of whom demonstrated a shared commitment to enhancing healthcare access for cancer patients in Zimbabwe.
The partnership between TM Pick n Pay and CABS serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that corporate initiatives can have on public health challenges.
Online Reporter