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Columbus Mabika
Herald Reporter
IN a step towards safeguarding the health of veterans of the liberation struggle, Government in partnership with Premier Service Medical Aid Society (PSMAS), is rolling out a national medical outreach.
The initiative will see thousands receive free screening for non-communicable diseases such as cancer, diabetes and hypertension.
It seeks to provide early detection and intervention for the non-communicable diseases, including prostate cancer, cervical cancer, hypertension and diabetes among veterans, who selflessly fought for our nation’s freedom.
Speaking during a visit to Chitungwiza outreach centre yesterday, Permanent Secretary for Veterans of the Liberation Struggle Affairs, Mr Clive Mphambela, said the Government remains committed to regularly improving the welfare of the country’s liberators.
“Through the vision of President Mnangagwa, that by 2030 we want to have adequate health coverage for all Zimbabweans leaving no one behind, the veterans of the liberation struggle are a very important segment of our society. So since the formation of the new ministry, there is renewed focus on welfare issues for the veterans, including their health among other critical issues,” he said.
Through early detection and screening, the programme seeks to identify and address health risks faced by veterans, leading to improved treatment outcomes and enhanced quality of life for veterans.
Veterans receiving the screening welcomed the development, saying it was a step in the right direction towards their welfare.
“We welcome this noble gesture presented to us by the Government of providing free health screening. As you know, most of us suffer from diseases that are related to conditions we endured during the liberation struggle. We thank the Government for coming to the people. Most of us are very old and have various problems that make travelling complicated,” said Mrs Messiah Kamusoko (64) of Chitungwiza.
Another veteran, Mrs Lilian Kanosawa (60), said the outreach was beneficial to them.
“We are grateful for these outreach programmes that have brought healthcare services to our doorsteps as we used to struggle walking long distances. I managed to get screened for cervical cancer, including my blood pressure and blood sugar,level,” she said.
The outreach comes after the Ministry of Veterans of the Liberation Struggle Affairs last week undertook home visits and needs assessment initiatives for war veterans as part of efforts to find lasting solutions to their challenges.
The appreciation and information gathered during the home visits is helping the Government on how best to serve the needs and requirements of the veterans, leading to the medical outreach.
Online Reporter