Over 24,000 children receive Vitamin A supplementation in Bulawayo

BULAWAYO - The Bulawayo City Council (BCC) has reported that more than 24,000 children were recently given Vitamin A supplements as part of ongoing efforts to combat malnutrition and related health challenges.  

According to the latest council minutes, a total of 24,460 children received due and overdue supplementation. Emakhandeni district administered the highest number (9,300), while Nkulumane district recorded the lowest (6,885).  

The minutes also highlighted the city's participation in Breast Cancer Awareness Month, observed globally every October. Council noted that breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women worldwide.  

"The theme for Breast Cancer Awareness Month was 'Every Story is Unique, Every Journey Matters', which emphasised the individual nature of each person's experience with breast cancer and called for equitable, high-quality care embedded with psychosocial support," the minutes read.  

The campaign was integrated with World Mental Health Day on 10 October, promoting holistic health by recognising the emotional and psychological dimensions of cancer. Council noted that many patients face depression, anxiety and isolation, while caregivers also bear a heavy mental burden.  

A series of community dialogues were held across city clinics, supported by councillors, with one session hosted at Elgibho Guest Lodge. These focused on raising awareness of breast cancer signs, symptoms, causes and self-examination, encouraging early detection. Survivors shared personal testimonies highlighting both mental health struggles and financial challenges in managing the disease.  

To further amplify awareness, a citywide Breast Cancer Awareness Commemoration was held at the Large City Hall. Residents raised concerns over under-resourced health systems, particularly in diagnosis and treatment, which they said contributed to poor outcomes.  

Council concluded that all activities were aimed at empowering residents to live healthier lives and improve overall well-being - physically, mentally and socially. Health information dissemination sessions continued across facilities, supported by videos carrying key health messages on clinic television sets.