Health and Child Care Ambassador, First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa, has once again taken her lifesaving medical outreach programme to the people, this time in Zvishavane, where thousands turned out to access free health services through her state-of-the-art mobile hospital and clinic.
The mobile hospital, specially designed to bring advanced healthcare to underserved communities, was fully equipped with modern diagnostic machines, including an ultrasound scanner, a gynaecology oncology screening unit, and a radiation machine. These facilities allowed residents to undergo screening for cervical, breast, and prostate cancers—critical services that many would otherwise struggle to afford or access. With early detection now possible, health officials emphasised that communities could significantly lower the risks of cancer-related deaths.
Alongside the specialised screenings, medical staff from the Ministry of Health and Child Care operated several tents where they provided family planning services, blood pressure and diabetes checks, HIV testing and counselling, as well as treatment for minor ailments. The initiative ensured that entire families could benefit from a wide range of essential services.
First Lady Extends Lifesaving Medical Outreach to Zvishavane
The outreach was held during the Munhumutapa Day celebrations in Zvishavane, drawing multitudes of people eager to take part in the programme. For many, it was the first opportunity to receive professional screening, and the excitement and gratitude among beneficiaries were palpable.
Sister Primrose Masocha, one of the nurses involved in the cancer screening unit, said the turnout had exceeded expectations.
“Since it started, several women have been coming and benefitting from the programme. The turnout is high,” she said, adding that the initiative was providing life-changing interventions to communities that often go without such specialised care.
Beneficiaries shared stories of hope and relief. Mrs Lindiwe Gukuta, aged 50, admitted she had long ignored the need for cervical cancer checks, but the free service had changed her perspective.
“It’s good to be screened so that I can benefit. We used to ignore it, but now we know better, as it is done openly and free of charge,” she said.
Another beneficiary, Ms Tracy Ndebele, praised the awareness campaigns that accompanied the outreach. She noted that the mobile health buses were reaching remote corners of the country, ensuring no community was left behind.
“We were given awareness about cancer. These buses are moving around the whole country. Thanks to Amai for such a wonderful initiative,” she said.
For Mrs Esnath Chihuyo (60), the experience was smooth and reassuring.
“I got screened easily, and the process was smooth. I encourage every woman to seize this opportunity and get screened,” she urged.
In addition to providing healthcare, the First Lady demonstrated her commitment to social welfare by distributing food hampers to elderly women and widows in Zvishavane. Her gesture was met with heartfelt gratitude, as vulnerable households received much-needed relief.
Widow Janet Nyoni expressed deep appreciation for the support.
“Thank you so much for this hamper. As a widow, life is not easy, but this support gives me hope,” she said.
Granny Jane Gumbo echoed the sentiment, describing the donation as an act of kindness that brought comfort in her later years.
“I am so grateful for this gift. May the First Lady be blessed for remembering us in our old age,” she said with a smile.
Another elderly woman, Granny Muchadada Moyo, could not contain her joy after receiving her package.
“I truly appreciate this kindness. May the First Lady’s generosity return to her many times over,” she remarked.
For 73-year-old Granny Sarah Ncube, the gesture was particularly touching.
“At my age, such help means so much. I am deeply thankful to the First Lady for her love and care,” she said.
Several others, including widows and elderly women like Liz Mahlaba and Getrude Ndebele, echoed the same appreciation, describing the food hampers as a source of dignity and comfort.
Through this outreach, First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa has once again demonstrated her dual commitment to healthcare delivery and community welfare. By combining medical services with social support, she continues to bridge the gap for vulnerable groups while ensuring that lifesaving interventions are within reach of ordinary Zimbabweans.
The Zvishavane outreach was yet another chapter in the First Lady’s nationwide campaign to improve health awareness, encourage early screening, and extend compassion to the disadvantaged. For the thousands who benefitted, the programme was not just about treatment and supplies—it was a powerful reminder that they are seen, valued, and cared for.
Source- Herald
