Source: Mat South healthcare set for major transformation – herald
Thupeyo Muleya
Beitbridge Bureau
HEALTH and Child Care Minister Dr Douglas Mombeshora has reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to improving healthcare services in Matabeleland South through a phased approach aimed at addressing the province’s challenges.
Speaking during a three-day tour of major health facilities in the province this week, Dr Mombeshora emphasised the Government’s focus on strengthening healthcare infrastructure, increasing access to quality services and recruiting skilled healthcare professionals.
Accompanied by senior medical staff from his office, the provincial medical directorate and World Health Organisation country representative Dr Desta Tiruneh, the minister visited Maphisa Referral Hospital, Plumtree Referral Hospital, Gwanda Provincial Hospital and Beitbridge Referral Hospital.
The tour aimed to inform the minister about the on-ground operations and track progress on health facilities being rehabilitated as part of major legacy projects, particularly in preparation for national independence celebrations in Matobo district.
“We are committed to ensuring that every citizen, regardless of their location, has access to quality healthcare services,” he said.
Dr Mombeshora said the Government plans to upgrade healthcare facilities, improve equipment, and enhance the skills of healthcare workers.
He acknowledged challenges facing the province, including staff shortages, lack of ambulances and service vehicles, and inadequate infrastructure and accommodation.
The Minister said these issues would be addressed incrementally and mentioned plans to open more nurse training schools across the province, starting with Matobo in April, followed by Mangwe District in September and later in Beitbridge district.
“The phased approach will focus on prioritising key areas, including improving emergency services, enhancing specialist services and strengthening referral systems,” he said.
“We are also aware of the shortage of nurses and other critical staff, hence we want to establish more nurse training schools to tackle human resources challenges.
“Our focus will be to draw 50 percent of the trainee nurses from the district hosting the training school, fostering a spirit of devolution and having people who understand the local context.”
Dr Mombeshora expressed confidence that, with collective efforts, Matabeleland South would see significant improvements in healthcare delivery, contributing to the community’s overall well-being.
He stressed the importance of the ministry understanding operations and challenges across healthcare facilities nationwide.
WHO country representative Dr Tiruneh commended the Government for its commitment to upgrading facilities and increasing access to services in rural healthcare settings.
“This was an eye-opener for us; we have learned a lot on the ground during our visit with Minister Mombeshora.
“The Government’s commitment to expanding services and the proposal to open more nursing schools is a step in the right direction towards improving human resource-related challenges.
“We have also noted the dedication of the medical staff in most of the facilities we visited over the last three days and observed that infrastructure and accommodation challenges are common in these areas,” said Dr Tiruneh.
The visit by Dr Mombeshora and senior management staff was also essential to address issues on the spot and understand local challenges rather than viewing them solely from a central perspective.
“This effort will aid them in achieving their set targets,” said Dr Tiruneh.
The post Mat South healthcare set for major transformation appeared first on Zimbabwe Situation.