News / National
Zimbabwe launches Presidential Emergency Medical Scheme
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The Government of Zimbabwe has launched the Presidential Emergency Medical Scheme in Mutasa District, Manicaland Province, in a major effort to improve healthcare delivery in rural communities. The official launch took place on May 17, 2025, at St James Zongoro High School in Ward 24, with the Minister of Defence, Honourable Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, officiating as guest of honour.
The scheme is designed to address the growing healthcare needs of underserved populations, particularly in remote areas. Its primary objectives include improving health outcomes, reducing mortality rates, and ensuring broader access to essential medical services. As part of the launch activities, residents benefited from free health screenings, consultations with medical professionals, and educational workshops focused on preventive health.
Speaking at the event, Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri underscored the government's unwavering commitment to strengthening the healthcare system, especially in rural settings. She highlighted that access to medical care is a fundamental right and emphasized that the Second Republic, under President Emmerson Mnangagwa's leadership, remains dedicated to bridging the healthcare gap between urban and rural communities.
In addition to the health initiative, the government used the occasion to tackle other pressing social issues. The Defence Minister issued a strong warning against drug abuse, declaring that individuals involved in drug cartels could face up to 50 years in prison. She also revealed that a new statutory instrument would soon be introduced to regulate public alcohol consumption, part of a broader anti-drug campaign.
The launch event also included a food distribution programme targeting vulnerable groups. A total of 1,000 bags of mealie meal were handed out to elderly residents of Mutasa, alongside 2,000 bags of rice and 100 food hampers, courtesy of Discovery Ambulance Services.
The Presidential Emergency Medical Scheme is a key component of the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) and is aligned with Vision 2030, Zimbabwe's long-term goal of achieving an upper middle-income economy. By expanding access to quality healthcare and addressing socio-economic challenges, the government aims to uplift communities and build a healthier, more resilient nation.
The scheme is designed to address the growing healthcare needs of underserved populations, particularly in remote areas. Its primary objectives include improving health outcomes, reducing mortality rates, and ensuring broader access to essential medical services. As part of the launch activities, residents benefited from free health screenings, consultations with medical professionals, and educational workshops focused on preventive health.
Speaking at the event, Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri underscored the government's unwavering commitment to strengthening the healthcare system, especially in rural settings. She highlighted that access to medical care is a fundamental right and emphasized that the Second Republic, under President Emmerson Mnangagwa's leadership, remains dedicated to bridging the healthcare gap between urban and rural communities.
The launch event also included a food distribution programme targeting vulnerable groups. A total of 1,000 bags of mealie meal were handed out to elderly residents of Mutasa, alongside 2,000 bags of rice and 100 food hampers, courtesy of Discovery Ambulance Services.
The Presidential Emergency Medical Scheme is a key component of the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) and is aligned with Vision 2030, Zimbabwe's long-term goal of achieving an upper middle-income economy. By expanding access to quality healthcare and addressing socio-economic challenges, the government aims to uplift communities and build a healthier, more resilient nation.
Source - byo24news
