Zimbabwe’s healthcare crisis: ‘Only 16 dialysis machines for the entire country’

Zimbabweans have expressed deep concern about the deplorable state of public healthcare in the country, particularly regarding the lack of dialysis machines and the high costs associated with treatment for chronic kidney disease (CKD).

 

Speaking in the senate on Tuesday, Zanu-PF senator Dingumuzi Phuti, representing Matabeleland South, highlighted the dire situation in her province.

 

He stated: “Matabeleland South has no machine. So it means those in Matabeleland who are affected by kidney disease have to travel to Harare for treatment. I then ask myself, is the Government saying, we are properly taken care of?”

 

Matabeleland South senator Sithembile Mlotshwa (CCC) further mentioned the inadequacy of the health facilities throughout the country.

 

“Only 16 health facilities are available throughout the country to provide hemodialysis services, which is a far cry from the number of people who require the treatment.”

 

This lack of accessibility is compounded by the exorbitant costs of private dialysis facilities.

 

“The costs of hemodialysis are extremely high for ordinary citizens. It is a burden that many cannot afford,” Mlotshwa stated.

 

Senators pointed out the staggering number of Zimbabweans affected by CKD, with Senator Mlotshwa citing statistics indicating “34 people per every one million Zimbabweans.”

 

This translates to a significant portion of the population facing a potential death sentence due to a lack of proper healthcare infrastructure.

 

The Senators also raised concerns about the inconsistent availability of existing machines and the high costs of servicing them.

 

“There is nothing as painful as going to Mangwe and be told that the machine is down, then you are told to come back after two weeks. When you go back after two weeks, you are told the person that operates that machine is not around,” Senator Phuti noted

 

The senators’ remarks paint a grim picture of the healthcare landscape in Zimbabwe, where basic medical services are out of reach for many citizens battling CKD.

 

This lack of access to affordable treatment raises serious questions about the government’s commitment to the well-being of its people.

 

The motion put forth by opposition CCC senator Sesel Zvidzai called for the establishment of public hemodialysis facilities in each district.

 

This, according to him, would significantly improve accessibility and affordability for Zimbabweans struggling with CKD.