The Zimbabwean government has announced a comprehensive initiative to enhance its cancer treatment infrastructure, spearheaded by Minister of Health and Child Care, Dr. Douglas Mombeshora.
Acknowledging the pressing need for improved cancer care, Dr. Mombeshora confirmed that the two existing treatment centers at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals in Harare and Mpilo Central Hospital in Bulawayo are currently operational.
However, he highlighted challenges, particularly with Mpilo’s CT scan, which remains non-functional due to a funding shortfall for necessary spare parts.
To address these issues, the government plans to leverage revenues generated from a recently implemented sugar tax, which will finance the acquisition of essential medical equipment and expand services.
Specialist consultations are already underway to identify priority equipment needs, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively.
In addition to upgrading existing facilities, the government aims to establish new cancer treatment centers in strategic locations such as Chinhoyi, Gweru, Masvingo, and Mutare to decentralize cancer care.
This expansion is crucial for making treatment more accessible to the population, as cancer has become a significant public health challenge in Zimbabwe, exacerbated by long waiting times and limited resources.
By bolstering the capacity of cancer care facilities and investing in modern technology, the government intends to alleviate the existing burden on patients and healthcare providers alike.
Dr. Mombeshora emphasized that this initiative aligns with national health priorities, ultimately striving to improve the quality of life for all Zimbabweans.
The distribution of cancer treatment services across various cities is also aimed at reducing travel hardships faced by patients who currently rely solely on urban centers for care.
If successful, these plans could lead to a transformative shift in how cancer care is delivered in Zimbabwe, ensuring that more individuals receive timely and effective treatment.
