Zvishavane, one of the largest referral hospitals in the Midlands, is in poor condition with its X-ray machine not working for the past eight years.
Deputy Minister of Health and Child Welfare, Suleiman Qwedeni, could not hide his disappointment when he visited the hospital last Friday.
In addition to the faulty equipment, Quidini criticized hospital staff for mismanagement of the health centre.
Residents complained to the Minister that nurses took a casual approach to their work and their patients, and in particular expected mothers to die due to neglect.
He pointed to the hospital’s outdated equipment, poor record keeping, lack of basic medicines and mismanagement of resources. He called for immediate action to address the issues identified.
“We are aware that their X-ray machine has not been working for the past eight years. It is our duty to ensure that this is up and running. We will allocate them machines that will enable them to carry out their duties,” Quidini said.
But he said that developing infrastructure and improving service delivery is at the top of the government’s agenda.
“Improving the quality of healthcare services is a top priority for the government. Many initiatives have been put in place to improve infrastructure and develop the health sector,” Quidini said.
Bliss Simango commended the Minister for his presence.
“We wait for long hours in line with the nurses falling asleep on duty. People are dying due to neglect, especially pregnant mothers,” said Simango. Masvingo Mirror
