Online Reporter
Trust Freddy
Online Reporter
THE World Health Organisation in Zimbabwe has started delivering a US$200 000 consignment of essential medical equipment to the Ministry of Health and Child Care for the Women Integrated Cancer Services project.
The first batch, valued at US$20 000, is already in the country, with the remaining equipment worth over US$180 000 set to be delivered in the next few weeks.
The initiative seeks to reduce the burden of breast and cervical cancer through a comprehensive, integrated approach rooted in primary health care and the project is being implemented in Matabeleland South and Mashonaland West provinces.
Speaking at the official handover ceremony on Tuesday, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Child Care Dr Aspect Maunganidze said the donation will go a long way in supporting the country’s quest to achieve universal health coverage.
“Today, we gather with profound gratitude to mark a pivotal moment in Zimbabwe’s health journey: the handover of life-saving equipment for women’s integrated cancer services, destined for Shabwe Clinic in Beitbridge and Hurungwe District Hospital,” he said in a speech read on his behalf by the Acting Chief Director for Public Health, Dr Wenceslas Nyamayaro.
“This donation, focusing on breast and cervical cancer screening alongside NCDs and mental health integration, is a beacon of hope for underserved communities.”
He also said the donation will help the country bridge the gap in fighting cervical cancer in rural areas.
“Cervical cancer remains Zimbabwe’s most common cancer among women, claiming over 40 percent of cases in 2019, while breast cancer accounts for 13 percent
“These statistics are not just numbers, they represent mothers, sisters, and daughters lost too soon. Yet, progress is underway. From HPV vaccinations for girls to community-level screening, we are expanding access.
“But rural gaps persist in limited diagnostics, treatment delays, and low awareness. By 2030, we aim to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health threat through 90 percent vaccination, 70 percent screening, and 90 percent treatment access.”
World Health Organisation (WHO) Strategic Health, Policy and Planning Coordinator, DR Najibullah Safi, said: “The urgency of this initiative cannot be overstated. Cervical cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in the region, accounting for over 22 percent of all cancer deaths.
“Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed. An estimated 2,7 million women aged 25 to 54 are affected, with devastating socioeconomic consequences over 60 percent experience anxiety or depression, and more than 70 percent face financial hardship.”
He also revealed that the first consignment, valued at $20 000, includes four gynaecology examination couches, seven stethoscopes, eight peak flow meters, 11 glucometers, seven pulse oximeters, two laptops, and five desktop computers.
Dr Najibullah Safian said an additional consignment worth $187 000 will arrive in the coming weeks.
This includes advanced diagnostic and surgical tools such as thermo-ablative devices, colposcopes, biopsy and histology equipment, ultrasound and ECG machines, and digital diagnostic tools.
“This investment reflects our shared commitment to ensuring that women have access to the care they need, when and where they need it.
“In closing, I reaffirm WHO’s unwavering support to Zimbabwe in delivering high-quality, people-centred health services, grounded in primary health care and comprehensive essential service packages.”
Online Reporter