Hospital nurses arraigned for demanding bribes

Seven nurses from the maternity ward at Masvingo Provincial Hospital have appeared before a disciplinary hearing this week for allegedly demanding US$50 bribes from expectant mothers in exchange for proper care.

The hearings, held on Wednesday and Friday, were chaired by Provincial Nursing Officer Cresencia Maphosa and included Hospital Superintendent Noel Zulu, matron Jestina Mufaro Nyakudzi, physician Dr Porika Nyahwai, the Human Resources officer, and other senior hospital managers.

Investigations suggest that the practice of soliciting bribes has become increasingly common in government hospitals. One high-profile case involved Molline Madziyire from Beitbridge, who died at Gwanda Provincial Hospital on July 2, 2025, reportedly after failing to pay a US$50 bribe. She had entered the hospital in good condition but died a few hours later.

While Masvingo Hospital officials did not provide extensive details, they confirmed that disciplinary proceedings are underway against the nurses involved.

Sources within the hospital allege that the bribes were demanded for routine maternity services, including assistance during childbirth and access to functional X-rays. Some nurses reportedly pretended that hospital X-ray machines were broken, then demanded money to "assist" patients.

According to reliable insiders, the nurses pleaded guilty and apologised before the disciplinary panel. They reportedly admitted that the practice is widespread in the ward and has been ongoing for several years.

The case came to light after a police officer stationed at Masvingo Central reported a nurse who had demanded US$50 from his wife. Investigations also revealed that some nurses were referring patients to private medical providers for X-rays, receiving US$10 commissions per referral.

Several of the accused nurses are reportedly connected to high-ranking Zanu-PF officials, including a legislator, the deputy provincial medical director, a nursing school tutor, and staff in the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs' office.

Hospital sources noted that financial pressures and low salaries may partly explain the widespread nature of the problem. "Civil servants everywhere are making money from their services," one official said. "Police, clerks, magistrates, judges — everyone is taking a cue from the top."

In related incidents, Masvingo Provincial Hospital recently dismissed a senior nurse for misappropriating 75 ampoules of pethidine, a controlled painkiller, and Cytotec, a medication used for abortions. Earlier in the year, a laboratory scientist and a technician also faced court charges for theft of essential medical supplies.

The disciplinary hearings mark the latest effort by hospital management to tackle corruption and uphold professional standards, though insiders suggest systemic challenges remain in curbing malpractice across public health facilities.