HEALTH and Child Care Minister, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga yesterday officially reopened St Anne’s Hospital, a move he says will enhance the Church’s role in complementing government’s efforts to provide quality healthcare services.
By Patricia Mashiri
Speaking during the reopening of St Anne’s Harare Hospital which had closed in February 2016 for repairs and maintenance, VP Chiwenga said Zimbabwe’s health challenges require homegrown solutions.
I am very much aware of the contribution of St Anne’s Hospital to the Health Care System in Zimbabwe. I say this because it is our responsibility as a Ministry to ensure that our people: fathers, mothers, our sons and daughters have access to quality Health Care services.
“ I want to acknowledge the services that have been rendered by this Medical institution for the past eighty years, and most recently at the onset of the COVID-19 Pandemic.When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, it was providential that repairs and maintenance at the hospital were near completion, and as Government was grappling with the global pandemic, St Anne’s joined in sharing the burden with other Health Care Institutions in the country.
“The church proactively heeded the Government’s call to reopen St Anne’s Hospital as a COVID-19 treatment and Care Centre. In August 2020, the Hospital opened its doors to provide care for those infected with the Corona virus,” Vice President said.
He added that the hospital has given birth to several hospitals which include Mt. St. Marys in Hwedza, St Peters Mission hospital at Checheche, Murambinda Mission Hospital in Buhera and Mashambanzou Care Trust in Waterfalls among others.
Meanwhile, Sister Mary Mugodzeri, Little Company of Mary representative said they were grateful of the Vice President’s immense contribution in the Health sector and in their institution.
St Anne’s Hospital will be working on a referral basis as other services will continue to be provided as it expands. It offers 6 theaters that can accommodate a wide range of surgical cases.
