Story by Gay Matambo
VICTORIA Chitepo Provincial Hospital is undergoing a major infrastructure upgrade and expanding its specialised clinical services in a move aimed at strengthening healthcare delivery in Manicaland Province.
The refurbishment includes the construction of a perimeter wall, repainting of hospital buildings and an energy-efficiency upgrade, alongside the expansion of specialist medical services to improve patient care.
Hospital Health Services Administrator Ms Rachel Mhoshiwa said the infrastructure improvements would enhance security while reducing operating costs.
“The construction of the perimeter wall is a major milestone. It enhances security for staff and patients by controlling access and protecting hospital property. The painting has also improved the working environment, while the ZERA LED retrofit project is reducing utility costs, allowing us to redirect savings towards patient care.”
The hospital has also expanded specialised departments, enabling patients to access complex medical services locally instead of travelling to Harare or Bulawayo.
Senior Nurse Two Sheila Chimbetete said the development has strengthened the hospital’s ability to provide quality specialist care.
“Our capacity to deliver specialised care has improved. In the maternity and gynaecology units, we are recording better recovery rates and smoother delivery procedures. Having dedicated orthopaedic services in Mutare allows us to respond quickly to emergency trauma cases, saving lives and reducing costs for families.”
Medical Superintendent Dr Hilary Makiwa said the developments form part of the Government’s broader drive to modernise public healthcare facilities.
“We are witnessing the holistic modernisation of Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital. By improving security, upgrading our energy systems with ZERA and expanding specialist services such as orthopaedics, maternity and gynaecology, we are strengthening the hospital’s role as Manicaland’s referral centre. The project is funded by Government, with support from other Government institutions, while ZERA donated the retrofit project.”
The modernisation programme aligns with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 agenda, which prioritises improved public health infrastructure as part of building an upper middle-income economy.
