Harare gets US$1m for health sector upgrade

The City of Harare has secured a US$1 million partnership with the Swiss government aimed at upgrading the capital's deteriorating healthcare facilities, including the Mabvuku Polyclinic, which is set to become a 24-hour casualty centre.

The agreement, unveiled at Town House on Wednesday, will focus on strengthening diagnostic capacity and rehabilitating infrastructure to ease the burden on overstretched municipal health institutions.

Mayor Jacob Mafume said the project would modernise the city's health delivery system and improve access to affordable care.

"We are looking at upgrading Mabvuku Polyclinic. We have already built a state-of-the-art theatre for caesarean sections and other operations," Mafume said. "We assist in the birth of over 2 500 babies every month, and it's crucial that Mabvuku provides 24-hour casualty services."

The Mbuya Nehanda Polyclinic is currently under renovation, with its operations temporarily relocated to Mabvuku.

Mafume added that once the memoranda of understanding (MoUs) are signed, implementation is expected to begin early next year.

"Healthcare is a core municipal duty, and we must ensure it remains affordable. This partnership complements government efforts in improving citizens' well-being," he said.

Representing the Swiss Embassy in Harare, head of co-operation Stefano Berti praised the initiative as a step toward stronger local partnerships and lasting impact.

"Everything seems to be on track, and I hope very soon the agreement will be signed and implemented over the next two years," Berti said. "Working directly with localities like Harare is essential for achieving national and global health goals."

The partnership marks a significant boost to the capital's strained health infrastructure, which has suffered from years of underfunding and equipment shortages.