Ministry Of Health Rejects Claims Of Failing Public Health System

The Ministry of Health and Child Care has responded to recent social media attacks aimed at Zimbabwe’s public healthcare system, describing them as part of a larger, coordinated effort to unfairly criticise the sector.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Ministry expressed concern over what it called “unwarranted and mischievous attacks” circulating on social media platforms.

The Ministry suggested that these remarks were intended to selectively focus on the challenges faced by the public healthcare system, while deliberately overlooking the critical services being provided, often under resource-constrained conditions. Said a spokesperson for the Ministry:

The Ministry of Health and Child Care has taken note of recent negative remarks circulating on social media, which appear to form part of a broader pattern of unwarranted and mischievous attacks…

While we recognise and respect the public’s right to express concerns—and we welcome constructive engagement from all citizens and leaders—it is vital that such discourse remains fair, balanced, and based on verified facts.

The Ministry said it welcomes constructive engagement and informed critique, but firmly rejected narratives that undermine the efforts of healthcare professionals in the country. The Ministry added:

The Ministry is open to meaningful dialogue and informed critique; however, we strongly reject narratives that unfairly undermine the tireless efforts of our healthcare professionals and ignore the notable achievements underway across the country.

The Ministry further claimed that it has made major strides under the leadership of President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

According to the statement, the achievements include significant infrastructure upgrades at provincial and district hospitals, improved availability of medical equipment and essential supplies, expanded training programs for healthcare workers, landmark open-heart surgeries conducted at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, and the demonstration of telemedicine capabilities in Gokwe North during the 45th Independence Day celebrations.

The Ministry also called for cooperation among all sectors to address ongoing challenges in the healthcare system. Reads the statement:

We therefore call upon all public officials, civil society actors, the private sector, and development partners to work together in good faith to address challenges within the health sector. Collaboration—not confrontation—is the path to sustainable progress.

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