Published: 9 hours ago

Zimbabwe's public health system is reeling under severe strain as a mass exodus of health workers has left the Ministry of Health and Child Care with 14,000 vacant posts, Health and Child Care Minister Douglas Mombeshora has revealed.

Speaking during the official opening of the ministry's strategic review and planning workshop in Mutare on Tuesday, Mombeshora said the government has approved plans to recruit 14,000 new health workers, with 5,284 positions expected to be filled by December 2025.

The recruitment drive is part of a broader effort to stem the brain drain that has crippled hospitals and clinics across the country.

"Our vision is very clear," said Mombeshora. "We will build a resilient, equitable and high-performing health system - where resources are used effectively, service reaches every citizen, and quality care is a right, not a privilege."

Over the past few years, thousands of doctors, nurses and pharmacists have left Zimbabwe for better opportunities in countries such as the United Kingdom, the United States, and Australia.

The migration has left many health institutions - especially in rural areas - critically understaffed and overwhelmed, compromising the delivery of essential healthcare services.

"We must deploy staff strategically and improve working conditions to build a workforce that is competent, professional and motivated," Mombeshora emphasized.

The minister acknowledged that poor remuneration and limited resources remain key drivers of the exodus, urging reforms to retain skilled professionals.

He also noted that health financing and sustainability were among the ministry's top priorities.

"Donor support is declining, and domestic resources must work harder," he said. "The National Health Insurance Bill, which we plan to table before Parliament by year-end, will provide a stable, sustainable funding base and protect families from catastrophic health expenses."

The proposed legislation is expected to create a universal healthcare framework, ensuring equitable access to medical services for all citizens regardless of income.

Mombeshora said part of the ministry's reform strategy would focus on community health outreach and preventive care, to ease pressure on central hospitals that are often overcrowded.

"Too often, our central hospitals are overwhelmed because patients do not receive care at lower levels," he said. "We will invest in community health outreach programmes so that healthcare reaches every doorstep."

The minister also highlighted the importance of digital transformation in modernising the health sector.

"By investing in digital solutions, we will increase geographical access to services, improve operational efficiency, and enhance data management," he said.

Mombeshora said integrating technology into healthcare delivery would revolutionise access and management, improving overall health outcomes and strengthening the country's capacity to respond to public health challenges.

He urged collaboration across sectors, saying: "We must engage with various stakeholders to be part of this vision. A united front will be pivotal in creating a high-performing and resilient health system."

The ministry's recruitment drive and upcoming policy reforms are expected to mark a turning point in the effort to rebuild Zimbabwe's struggling health sector.
- NewsDay