Renewed optimism at Mpilo as Prof Ngwenya drives reforms

Mpilo Central Hospital has undergone notable transformation following the re-appointment of Professor Solwayo Ngwenya as Acting Chief Medical Officer, a move that has been widely welcomed by staff and patients alike.

Professor Ngwenya assumed the role after the retirement of Dr Narcisius Dzvanga at the end of 2025. Already serving as the hospital's Clinical Director, he stepped into the position with urgency and has since introduced practical reforms credited with restoring professionalism, discipline and accountability at the country's largest referral hospital in the southern region.

The renewed momentum comes amid major renovations currently underway at Mpilo, as the Government moves to modernise key public health infrastructure. The works - the first significant renovations at the hospital since it opened in 1958 - are being actively driven by Professor Ngwenya, who has emphasised timely completion to improve service delivery and working conditions.

Mpilo has long grappled with infrastructure decay, staff shortages and supply constraints, but recent weeks have seen a series of positive developments that have lifted morale within the institution.

Professor Ngwenya's return to the hospital's top leadership has also reopened debate about his earlier exclusion from the substantive Chief Executive Officer post in 2022. Despite having served as acting CEO for two years, he was overlooked in favour of Dr Dzvanga, who was then acting CEO of United Bulawayo Hospitals. The decision sparked criticism from health professionals and sections of the public, many of whom argued that Ngwenya's performance merited confirmation.

With his recent elevation to Acting Chief Medical Officer, optimism has resurfaced across Mpilo's wards and corridors.

Susan Makoni, a patient at the hospital, said she had noticed gradual improvements in punctuality and responsiveness. Hospital employee Timothy Dube echoed the sentiment, pointing to a renewed sense of discipline among staff who had previously adopted a lax approach to duty.

Midwife Gladys Muroyiwa praised Professor Ngwenya's hands-on leadership style, particularly his regular ward rounds.

"We want more of these supportive rounds," she said. "Midwives now make an effort to ensure medications are sourced for patients admitted at night, and there is no longer a delay in supplies in the morning. This is a great achievement."

Patients have also reported improved service delivery, particularly in high-pressure departments. Themba Ndlovu recounted a positive experience at the Casualty Department on a Saturday afternoon.

"The service was good, from nurses and doctors to X-ray and orthopaedics. The team was available and responsive. Siyabonga to the entire team," he said.

Health professionals interviewed confirmed improvements across several departments. A junior doctor, who requested anonymity, said long-standing shortages of theatre supplies were now being addressed swiftly.

"The buy list for theatre is quickly disappearing. We appreciate Dr Ngwenya's rapid intervention in mobilising resources after years of decline," the doctor said.

Laboratory services have also improved, according to Ms Nyasha, who noted that most tests are now being conducted in-house.

"There is real change. Order has been restored in Casualty, essential drugs are now available, and overall service delivery has improved. We are grateful for the leadership," she said.

During visits to the hospital, visible changes were observed, including improved lighting, enhanced night-time security for nursing staff, better adherence to duty rosters by doctors — particularly in Casualty — and improved availability of essential drugs and medical supplies.

As Mpilo continues on its reform path, many patients and health professionals have expressed hope that Professor Solwayo Ngwenya will be confirmed in the substantive role, citing his consultative leadership style, responsiveness and demonstrated commitment to restoring the hospital's standards.