Villagers get free medical care

Hundreds of villagers in Chikomba West constituency received free medical treatment over the weekend as part of the Presidential Medical Care initiative, aimed at improving healthcare access for underserved communities in Zimbabwe.

The two-day outreach programme, held on Friday and Saturday, was conducted in several wards including Chambara (wards 4 and 6), Leleza, Chitsa (wards 7 and 13), Chisarasara (ward 20), Tashinga Logan Lee School, and Beatrice. The programme offered a wide range of services, including medical check-ups, treatment, and first aid training.

The initiative comes at a time when Zimbabwe's public health sector is under significant strain, worsened by the withdrawal of key international donors such as USAID. In response to these challenges, the medical outreach was spearheaded by telecommunications giant TelOne in partnership with Discovery Ambulance Services and local legislator Tendai Mavetera.

Speaking during the outreach, Mavetera said the programme had made a significant impact on the health of many in the constituency.

"This project is a part of the Presidential Emergency Medical Scheme, which is aimed at improving people's health. We are here to ensure that those in need get access to healthcare," she said. "We're also implementing other empowerment initiatives for youths, women, war veterans, and people with disabilities - including a fishery project at Chivhu Dam and the rehabilitation of clinics."

Mavetera also highlighted the rollout of digital skills training and basic first aid courses, saying over 5,000 people had already benefited from the empowerment programmes.

Discovery Ambulance Services chief operations officer Taylor Mvududu praised the collaboration, noting the initiative's focus on reaching vulnerable populations.

"We're here to screen and treat every vulnerable person, regardless of age," he said. "We've mobilised doctors, nurses, and partnered with Chivhu District Hospital to ensure comprehensive medical coverage."

Mvududu emphasized the importance of first aid training, calling it a crucial life-saving skill. "In any emergency, whether it's a sick child or an accident, you're the first responder. That's why we're training everyone here today — and it's all for free."

TelOne chief executive officer Lawrence Nkala said healthcare was a critical part of the company's corporate social responsibility focus.

"As a community-focused company, TelOne is committed to enhancing access to quality healthcare. We believe that healthcare is a right, not a privilege, and we will continue supporting communities through initiatives like this," Nkala said.

As part of the outreach, TelOne also donated 10 wheelchairs to the constituency, reinforcing its commitment to inclusive and sustainable development.

The successful outreach programme has brought renewed hope to many villagers in Chikomba West, marking a significant step toward closing the healthcare access gap in rural Zimbabwe.