Story by Yolanda Moyo
ZIMBABWE’s health sector transformation is gathering momentum under the Second Republic, with major referral hospitals undergoing extensive renovations, upgrading and modernisation to match international standards.
In Bulawayo, work is progressing at Mpilo Central Hospital, one of the country’s largest referral institutions, where a comprehensive facelift is underway under the Presidential Hospital Refurbishment Programme.
Construction teams are working around the clock to meet the completion deadline for the first phase, replacing ageing infrastructure with modern systems designed to support specialised medical services and improve efficiency within the facility.
“These renovations include structural rehabilitation, upgrading of wards, installation of modern medical infrastructure, and improvements to essential services such as water systems and power supply. Our goal is to deliver a facility that meets modern healthcare standards while ensuring minimal disruption to hospital operations,” Project Site Manager, Mr Marshal Rusike noted.
Sections of the hospital are already showing visible transformation, with upgraded wards, improved patient spaces and enhanced infrastructure expected to significantly improve the working environment for healthcare professionals while ensuring patients receive care in a more dignified setting.
Mpilo Central Hospital Operations Director, Mr Phineas Sithole, highlighted key improvements.
“The upgraded HVAC system allows controlled air circulation, improving comfort and infection control. Hand-washing basins are now available in each ward cubicle, and all wards are tiled with industrial-grade materials to minimise cross-infection. Improved wards, upgraded theatres and better equipment spaces will enhance patient outcomes while also providing a safer and more efficient working environment for our health care workers.”
The Deputy Minister of Health and Child Care, Honourable Sleiman Kwidini visited the construction site, saying the modernisation of key health institutions is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the country’s health delivery system and ensure citizens have access to quality services in public hospitals.
“The Second Republic has prioritised health sector development because a healthy nation is the foundation for sustainable growth. Refurbishments such as those at Mpilo Central Hospital demonstrate our commitment to providing citizens with access to modern healthcare facilities.”
Honourable Kwidini added that the current block is between 75 and 85 percent complete, with full completion expected by the end of April, after which the next phase of renovations will begin.
Authorities say that as early as the second quarter of this year, the second phase of works will begin, further expanding the scope of renovations at Mpilo.
Similar modernisation programmes are also underway in Harare, signalling a nationwide effort by the Second Republic to transform Zimbabwe’s health sector and ensure hospitals are equipped to meet the demands of a growing population.
