Story by Abigirl Tembo, Health Editor
ZIMBABWE’S investment in primary healthcare has received international recognition, with the World Health Organisation (WHO) commending the country’s efforts to decentralise quality health services and strengthen community-based care.
The endorsement came during a visit to Stoneridge Health Centre in Harare by WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr Mohammed Yakub Janabi, who was in Zimbabwe for the SADC Health Ministerial Meeting.
The facility, which attends to an average of 60 patients daily, has become a key example of Government’s drive to improve access to healthcare while easing pressure on referral hospitals.
Dr Janabi said the health centre demonstrates the importance of strengthening primary healthcare in achieving Universal Health Coverage.
“The direction of WHO Africa and its Member States is to strengthen primary healthcare because it is the backbone of Universal Health Coverage. Visiting Stoneridge Health Centre has clearly demonstrated how Zimbabwe is prioritising primary healthcare… Strengthening primary healthcare is saving lives… I am very impressed by what I have seen. This model can become an example for many countries across our region.”
He noted that the introduction of Caesarean section services at the facility had already improved maternal healthcare, with seven elective Caesarean deliveries conducted in June alone.
Patients also praised the quality of care provided at the centre.
“We really appreciate what the Government is doing at this health centre because we are receiving excellent healthcare services. The nurses are caring, the doctors are professional and knowledgeable,” said Innocent Pasuwa.
“The baby I am holding is six weeks old and was delivered here at Stoneridge Health Centre… I have no complaints about the services because they are excellent,” said Tariro Chirimba.
Government says the growing demand for services at Stoneridge Health Centre reinforces the need to replicate similar facilities nationwide.
Health and Child Care Minister Dr Douglas Mombeshora said the programme is central to expanding access to quality healthcare.
“The doctor here sees about 60 patients a day, showing that demand exists. We have already completed four of these centres, and four more are under construction. We plan to build about 30 such facilities across the country.”
The modern facilities form part of a two-phase national health infrastructure programme under the Second Republic aimed at standardising healthcare delivery, decentralising specialised services and improving equitable access to quality care.
Phase One, fully funded by Government at a cost of US$11.2 million, delivered Stoneridge Health Centre in Harare, Cowdray Park in Bulawayo, Mataga in Mberengwa and Runyararo in Chimanimani.
Phase Two, valued at US$12.5 million and also fully Government-funded, is constructing modern, solar-powered and digitally equipped health centres in Manhize (Chivhu), Rudhanda (Zaka), Paradza (Chivi South) and Lady Stanley (Bulilima).
The expansion programme is expected to strengthen Zimbabwe’s health system as the country advances towards Universal Health Coverage through improved access to primary healthcare services.
