By Dumisani Ndlovu
Gweru, Zimbabwe – Her Excellency, the First Lady of Zimbabwe, Cde Dr. A. Mnangagwa, graced the 30th anniversary celebrations of the Surgical Society of Zimbabwe at Gweru Provincial Hospital on Friday 19 July 2024.
The event marked a significant milestone in the Society’s commitment to providing quality surgical care to Zimbabweans.
Giving her key note address, the First Lady praised the Society’s dedication to decentralizing services, making surgical care accessible to all, and their achievements in conducting complex surgeries, including the separation of conjoined twins and advancements in cardiac surgery.
“It is indeed pleasing to note that the Society has been instrumental in expanding access to quality surgical care across through decentralization of services with qualified surgeons now serving in various cities and towns for the benefit of all Zimbabweans underpinned by the Second Republic’s devolution and decentralization agenda. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to serve Zimbabwe,” she said.
She also acknowledged the proficiency of Zimbabwean surgeons, both locally and internationally.
“She commended the Second Republic’s efforts in transforming healthcare, including the provision of drugs, equipment, and training, as well as the deployment of specialists to hospitals and clinics. These initiatives align with the country’s goal of achieving health for all by 2025 and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals,” said the first.
Dr Mnangagwa also highlighted the importance of collaboration between the government, private sector, and higher education institutions in providing quality healthcare. She mentioned the Midlands State University’s National Pathology, Research and Diagnostic Centre and the Angel of Hope Foundation’s efforts in cancer diagnosis and screening.
She applauded the Surgical Society of Zimbabwe for their tireless efforts in shaping the country’s surgical landscape and wished them continued success in their future endeavors.
“These efforts support the New Dispensation’s desire to attain health for all by 2025 and the UN Sustainable Development Goal number 3 of Good Health and Wellbeing and number 9 on industry, innovation and infrastructure which recognizes the need for resilient infrastructure and access to internet and advanced technology which we have witnessed here at Gweru Provincial Hospital.
The event marked a significant milestone in Zimbabwe’s healthcare journey, reaffirming the country’s commitment to providing quality and affordable healthcare services to its citizens.
