COMMENT: Investing in health is investing in economic development

THE Government’s renewed commitment to revitalising Mpilo Central Hospital and other provincial health institutions is a commendable and strategic step toward strengthening the national healthcare system.The recent visit to Mpilo Central Hospital by Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube, at the directive of President Mnangagwa, underscores the seriousness with which the Second Republic is addressing long-standing challenges in the health sector.Professor Mthuli NcubeThis initiative is particularly timely, given the critical need to modernise infrastructure, improve service delivery, and retain skilled medical personnel The challenges highlighted — such as the urgent requirement for a new Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) system to support radiotherapy services — reflect the pressing need for targeted investment in life-saving equipment and technologies.The fact that nearly half of Mpilo’s cancer patients are unable to access radiotherapy due to equipment failure is deeply concerning and warrants immediate redress.Moreover, the Government’s broader approach — evidenced by recent inspections of Parirenyatwa and Sally Mugabe Hospitals, and the planned visits to other institutions like Ingutsheni Central Hospital — demonstrates a holistic and inclusive strategy The emphasis on decentralised development ensures that no region is left behind in the national healthcare transformation agenda.While fiscal constraints and the enduring impact of sanctions continue to pose significant hurdles, the Government’s proactive stance, including the integration of solar energy solutions and the completion of critical infrastructure such as TB laboratories and paediatric units, signals a forward-looking vision.Access to quality healthcare is a fundamental pillar of national development and individual well-being When citizens receive timely, effective, and affordable medical services, the overall health outcomes of the population improve significantly.Preventive care, early diagnosis, and proper treatment reduce mortality rates and the burden of chronic diseases, enabling individuals to lead healthier, more productive lives.Moreover, a robust healthcare system contributes to economic growth

Healthy citizens are more capable of working, learning, and contributing to their communities Families spend less on emergency treatments and caregiving, allowing them to invest in education and other essentials This, in turn, reduces poverty and enhances social mobility.Quality healthcare also promotes equity and social cohesion It ensures that vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those in rural areas are not left behind

When healthcare services are accessible and reliable, trust in public institutions grows, fostering national unity and resilience.The Government’s current efforts to upgrade Mpilo Central Hospital and other facilities reflect a commendable commitment to these principles It is imperative that these efforts are sustained through transparent implementation, adequate funding, and continuous stakeholder engagement.Only through such a comprehensive and collaborative approach can the country achieve a resilient, equitable, and high-quality healthcare system for all its citizens.Share on FacebookPost on XFollow usSave

Originally published on Zimbabwe Herald

Source: Zimbabwe Herald