By Kuda Pembere
Population Services Zimbabwe (PSZ) has reopened its clinic in Mbare following a major renovation exercise aimed at improving access to quality healthcare in the high-density suburb.
Established in 2007, the clinic has served thousands of Mbare residents over the years. Officiating at the relaunch on Monday, Deputy Minister of Health and Child Care Hon. Sleiman Kwidini said the facility plays a critical role not only for the local community but for people from across Zimbabwe.
“Since opening its doors to the public in 2007, the PSZ Mbare Clinic has had a significant impact on the lives of the Mbare community and beyond. “The impact goes beyond Mbare because the clinic is situated in a community that hosts the country’s largest bus terminus, linking people from all provinces of Zimbabwe,” he said.
Hon. Kwidini praised PSZ and other non-governmental organizations for their role in complementing the government’s efforts in healthcare delivery.
“NGOs like PSZ, which own and operate clinics such as this one, are indispensable partners in extending essential services to underserved populations. Their work supports public health infrastructure, workforce development, and community empowerment,” he said.
Since opening, the Mbare Clinic has made a significant impact, particularly in the area of sexual and reproductive health. Over the past five years, the clinic has provided high-quality, comprehensive sexual and reproductive health, family planning, and general health services to more than 30,000 adolescent girls and young women.
“This has helped prevent an estimated 18,000 unintended pregnancies, 80 maternal deaths, and approximately 8,000 unsafe abortions, while generating over 50,000 Couple Years of Protection (CYPs),” said the deputy minister. “The clinic’s services have also delivered measurable financial benefits, saving more than USD 1 million in direct healthcare costs. Even more impressive is its average income-to-cost ratio of over 130% in the past five years—an indicator of sustainable impact.”
Swedish Ambassador to Zimbabwe Per Lingarde emphasized the importance of addressing sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) to ensure women fully enjoy other human rights, including access to education and economic empowerment.
“I am honoured to be part of the Mbare Clinic relaunch. It is worth noting that clinics funded by Sweden have become self-sustaining. This is a success model that we are proud to support,” he said. “This clinic will go a long way in serving vulnerable women and girls. I congratulate PSZ and Marie Stopes International (MSI) for making this possible.”
PSZ Country Director Mrs. Pester Siraha said the upgraded clinic is a symbol of what can be achieved through strong partnerships.
“The renovation and revamp of Mbare Clinic stand as a testament to what is possible when committed partners unite around a shared vision. This facility, now restored and modernized, will serve as a beacon of hope and a center of excellence for SRHR services in one of Harare’s most vibrant communities. Under the banner For Every Stage of Woman, we are deeply grateful to MSI Reproductive Choices for their support,” she said.
