Story by Tapiwa Machemedze
THE Government has intensified efforts to close immunisation gaps in Mashonaland Central with the commissioning of three Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI) service vehicles to improve vaccine access in remote communities.
The move comes barely a month after the rollout of a mobile health clinic in the province, underscoring continued investment in grassroots healthcare delivery.
Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Christopher Magomo, said the vehicles will serve Mount Darwin, Mazowe and Guruve districts, bringing essential services closer to communities.
“These vehicles represent more than just transport; they symbolise our collective commitment to protecting every child from vaccine-preventable diseases. Immunisation remains one of the most cost-effective public health interventions, playing a critical role in reducing child mortality and building a healthy population,” he said.
The vehicles are expected to strengthen outreach programmes by enabling health workers to access hard-to-reach areas more frequently and consistently.
Acting Provincial Medical Director, Dr Terrence Musekiwa, said the initiative will bridge service delivery gaps in underserved communities.
“These vehicles are supposed to assist us. Whilst we have a number of clinics, there are some far too remote people and areas, so with these vehicles we will get there and provide services and immunise children. Essentially, these are service vehicles to improve the immunisation program,” he said.
The commissioning marks another milestone in Zimbabwe’s drive to build a resilient health system and ensure equitable access to essential healthcare services.
