Zimbabwe mulls free cancer treatment

Leroy Dzenga
The Zimbabwean government is considering offering cancer and renal treatment free of charge to its citizens at public institutions.

On Monday President Mnangagwa handed over the first batch of equipment bought in India in response to an appeal by local doctors for medical equipment.

Speaking during the hand over ceremony at the national pharmaceutical company ,Natpharm in Harare, President Mnangagwa said the donation was in response to a request by the doctors whose work was being undermined by lack of equipment.

Dr Faith Muchemwa, representing doctors working in public hospitals, said the situation has improved since they let out a distress call to Government.

“When we met with the President and presented our case, he gave us a listening ear and began acting on our requests. When Dr John Mangwiro (Deputy Health Minister) was sent to procure the equipment, he was in constant touch with us, asking for specifications on equipment. Our only
regret is that we did not ask for more equipment as it appears Government is delivering on all our requests,” Dr Muchemwa said.

President Mnangagwa handed over various equipment including hydraulic and electric theatre tables, ventilators, monitors for adults incubators and paediatrics respiratory aid devices.

Cancer and kidney ailments are expensive to manage, with many who are diagnosed with them struggling to get medication.