MAHUSEKWA — The Mahusekwa Hospital, also known as the China-Zimbabwe Friendship Hospital, is a symbol of the strengthening relationship between China and Zimbabwe, providing essential healthcare services in Mashonaland East Province. Established with Chinese support, this facility marks significant cooperation between the two nations, improving healthcare accessibility for local communities.
According to Namibia Press Agency, the hospital was completed in two phases; the first in 2012 and the second in 2019. It houses several departments including dental, pediatrics, radiology, physiotherapy, maternity, and even a theater and mortuary, reflecting a broad range of healthcare services. Delight Madoro, the medical officer for Marondera district, emphasized the facility’s role in enhancing China-Zimbabwe relations, noting increased support from the Chinese government.
The hospital has had a profound impact on local healthcare delivery, serving not only Mahusekwa but also the wider Marondera rural district, which is home to approximately 136,000 people. It draws patients from as far as Harare, about 100 kilometers away, particularly for its reputable maternity services. On average, it handles about 400 patients weekly, with 175 admissions, thanks to its quality services and well-equipped emergency facilities.
Collaboration extends beyond just infrastructure; it includes regular visits and exchanges with Chinese medical specialists, fostering an environment of shared knowledge and enhanced service provision. Last year, Madoro participated in a training program in China, focusing on advanced laboratory techniques that are particularly beneficial for developing countries.
The hospital not only meets healthcare needs but also acts as a catalyst for local economic growth. Beauty Mberi, a matron at the hospital, highlighted how the availability of services like cesarean sections locally has transformed healthcare delivery in the area, alleviating the need for long-distance travel for such procedures. This has also eased the burden on healthcare workers and allowed for better management of medical complications locally.
Patients and community members have expressed appreciation for the hospital’s role in providing timely, quality care. Osness Chitsuro, a patient, praised the facility for its accessibility and the immediate availability of necessary medications. The hospital’s presence has also attracted business investments in the area, further boosting the local economy.
The ongoing partnership in the health sector between China and Zimbabwe, which includes initiatives like sending medical teams to Zimbabwe since 1985 and the recent handover of a pharmaceutical warehouse in 2022, underscores a long history of collaborative efforts aimed at enhancing Zimbabwe’s healthcare capabilities.