Story by Mercy Matinha
Government is working with its development partners to improve access to healthcare services, with the people of Masvingo being the latest to benefit after the commissioning of a new Warehouse for National Pharmaceutical Company (NatPHARM).
The newly commissioned NATPHARM warehouse in Masvingo is worth more than US$3.6 million and has a storage capacity of nearly 3000 pallet space.
The NATPHARM warehouse which will serve close to 250 health institutions across Masvingo province was commissioned this Friday after being handed over to government by the United Nations Development Programme.
“The successful completion of this project underscores the importance of multi-sectoral collaboration. The UNDP’s involvement enabled us to develop a modern facility that will enhance our capacity to store, manage and distribute essential medicines and medical supplies. This warehouse will serve as a critical hub for the region, ensuring that life-saving drugs reach those who need them most in a timely and efficient manner,” said the Deputy Minister of Health and ChildCare, Honourable Sleiman Kwidini.
UNDP resident representative Dr Ayodele Odusola said they have invested in the supply chain system in Zimbabwe as part of the organisation’s Resilient Systems Strengthening for Health.
“UNDP is complementing government efforts to improve the handling capacity of this supply chain, by ensuring sufficient space at central and regional warehouses as well as at health facilities across the country. UNDP, through the Global Fund, has invested nearly US$30 million in the provision of warehousing. In addition to the construction of the warehouses, UNDP’s ongoing support to the supply chain system, also includes the construction of pharmacy stores at health facilities to improve storage and space conditions,” he said.
The NATPHARM Board and Masvingo Provincial leadership appreciated the development which will all the districts having access to medical supplies in time.
“The construction of this warehouse has laid a foundation for a more efficient healthcare system in Masvingo. We are going to ensure the facility is operates at its highest capacity and serve the intended beneficiarie,” noted NatPHARM board representative, Ms Agnes Dembetembe.
Permanent Secretary in the Office of Masvingo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Dr Addmore Pazvakavambwa weighed in, “This warehouse represents a beacon of hope and a commitment to enhancing the qualoty of healthcare in Masvingo province and beyond. We are poised to significantlt improve our distribution networks and reduce delays in terms of medicines supplies.”
Government and its patners are working on a number of programmes to improve access to healthcare including constructing clinics, hospitals and equipping them with modern equipment.
