Published: 2 hours ago

The Ministry of Health and Child Care has launched the National Public Health Institute (NPHI), a major initiative aimed at strengthening Zimbabwe's capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to public health threats.

The establishment of the institute was made possible through a US$4.3 million grant from the European Union (EU).

Speaking at the launch, Health and Child Care Minister Douglas Mombeshora said the creation of the NPHI marks a new era in Zimbabwe's public health system and represents a coordinated effort to improve preparedness and response to health emergencies.

"The National Public Health Institute is not an isolated entity," Mombeshora said. "It will collaborate with other ministries whose work affects or is affected by public health. This will allow us to have a comprehensive and unified response to challenges that impact the wellbeing of our people."

He explained that the institute will serve as a centre for scientific research, surveillance, and evidence-based policy development, enabling the country to respond more effectively to emerging diseases and long-standing health issues.

"Through this institute, we will be able to conduct research that guides us on how best to tackle emerging and persistent health issues," Mombeshora said.

The minister added that the NPHI aligns Zimbabwe with several Southern African Development Community (SADC) member states that have established similar institutions, demonstrating the country's commitment to regional and global health standards.

"This is not the first of its kind in the world. Many countries in the SADC region have already set up national public health institutes, and we are proud to join them in this effort. It is a crucial step that will help us shape the future of our health system," he noted.

Mombeshora commended the European Union for its financial support, which enabled the inception of the project and the groundwork for its operations.

He also reaffirmed government's commitment to working with development partners to improve health infrastructure, disease surveillance, and service delivery across the country.

"This initiative is about ensuring that our health sector is not just reactive, but proactive - able to anticipate risks and prepare for them," he said.

Zimbabwe's health system has long suffered from underfunding and staff shortages, with public hospitals often lacking essential medicines and equipment. A persistent exodus of healthcare professionals seeking better opportunities abroad has further weakened the sector.

Officials hope that the establishment of the NPHI will help reverse this decline by improving coordination, capacity, and resilience within the public health system.
- NewsDay