DT Correspondent
Mhondoro Ngezi, Zimbabwe – Zimplats, the country’s largest platinum group metal (PGM) producer, has officially handed over a state-of-the-art maternity ward valued at over US$230,000 to Gweshe Clinic in Mhondoro Ngezi.
The initiative aims to improve the healthcare experience for expecting mothers in the area.
The newly donated facilities include a modern maternity ward, a waiting shelter for mothers, spacious staff accommodation for two families, and a cooking area.
The maternity ward and waiting home are equipped with state-of-the-art beds and linen, ensuring a comfortable environment for patients.
Previously, Gweshe Clinic had limited infrastructure, consisting of only one block and two staff quarters, which were inadequate to meet the needs of the surrounding communities.
Consequently, many patients sought treatment in Kadoma, while home births were common despite the higher risks associated with such deliveries, including infant death, seizures, and nervous system disorders.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Zimplats’ managing director, Mr Stanley Segula, expressed the company’s commitment to enhancing the quality of healthcare in Zimbabwe and working towards universal health coverage, equity, and reducing maternal and newborn deaths.
“This project has improved healthcare services for the communities around the clinic, increased the clinic’s capacity to serve the community, and enhanced the overall healthcare experience for both patients and medical staff,” said Mr Segula.
Minister of Health and Child, Dr. Douglas Mombeshora, represented by the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Hon Marian Chombo, commended Zimplats for their investment in the healthcare delivery system.
He encouraged other mining institutions to follow suit to ensure universal access to quality healthcare for all Zimbabweans within a reasonable timeframe.
“With more institutions joining Zimplats in investing in the health delivery system, Zimbabwe should be able to provide universal access to all within a reasonable period.
“This aligns with the objectives of the National Health Strategy 2021-2025, which outlines the roadmap for improving the country’s health system in key areas such as access to essential services, health infrastructure, medical equipment, and governance,” stated Dr Mombeshora.
Minister Chombo commended Zimplats for its corporate social responsibility efforts, emphasising that their initiatives would contribute to the transformation of the country’s economy in line with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s vision of leaving no place behind.
“I am proud of the work they are doing in their communities, particularly their focus on community wellness, education, skills development, infrastructure development, and enterprise development.
“These interventions align with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s call to ensure that no place or person is left behind as we strive for economic prosperity,” she said.
The donation of the state-of-the-art maternity ward by Zimplats is expected to improve healthcare access and outcomes for expecting mothers in Mhondoro Ngezi, contributing to the overall development and well-being of the community.
