The Ministry of Health and Child Care has addressed a wave of social media criticism, describing it as a pattern of “unwarranted and mischievous attacks” on Zimbabwe’s public healthcare system.
In a statement, the Ministry said the commentary selectively highlights challenges while ignoring ongoing service delivery and recent improvements achieved under constrained conditions.
While welcoming citizen engagement and public scrutiny, the Ministry stressed the need for balanced, fact-based discussions. It reaffirmed support for constructive dialogue but rejected what it called “unfair narratives” that diminish the dedication of healthcare workers and overlook key progress across the sector.
The Ministry outlined several milestones under the Second Republic, including upgrades to provincial and district hospitals, enhanced medical equipment and supplies, expanded healthcare worker training, improved maternal health outcomes, and successful open-heart surgeries at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals.
The statement also referenced the rollout of telemedicine during the 45th Independence Day celebrations in Gokwe North.
Calling for collective action, the Ministry appealed to public officials, civil society, private sector players, and development partners to collaborate in addressing healthcare sector challenges. It reiterated its commitment to building a resilient, equitable, and responsive system for all citizens.
Separately, Hon. Minister Tino Machakaire, who visited a public hospital to see a relative, publicly expressed concern over the conditions he witnessed.
In a message directed to President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Machakaire urged the Head of State to visit the institutions personally, saying nothing compares to seeing the situation firsthand. He praised citizens who have spoken out, saying their advocacy reflects faith in leadership that listens and puts people first.
