By Farai D Hove | Harare, Zimbabwe – December 6, 2024
Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube has announced that funds raised through the newly imposed sugar tax will be used to procure cancer treatment machines, signaling a major step forward in addressing the country’s healthcare challenges. The Procurement Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (PRAZ) has already approved a fast-tracked process to acquire the life-saving equipment, which could be delivered before year-end.
Since the introduction of the sugar tax in the 2024 National Budget, the government has collected over US$18 million. Speaking at a post-Cabinet briefing, Health and Child Care Minister Dr. Douglas Mombeshora confirmed that his ministry had already conducted research to identify the country’s most pressing cancer treatment needs.
“Now that we know we are going to get money from the sugar tax, we have sought advice from radio-oncologists to prioritize the equipment required,” said Dr. Mombeshora. “PRAZ has approved a short bid process to shorten the procurement period, and we aim to complete procurement before December 31.”
Zimbabwe currently has only two cancer treatment centers—at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals in Harare and Mpilo Hospital in Bulawayo. These centers have been plagued by erratic operations due to frequent machine breakdowns. While repairs have been completed at both facilities, the government aims to not only expand capacity at these centers but also establish new cancer treatment facilities in Chinhoyi, Gweru, Masvingo, and Mutare.
New Facilities in the Pipeline
Dr. Mombeshora outlined plans to create fully equipped cancer treatment centers in key provincial hospitals, with the new machines allowing for broader access to cancer care. “The new centers will be fully operational with all the required equipment,” he said.
In addition to cancer treatment, the Ministry of Health has made strides in implementing other healthcare projects under its 100-day cycle program. These include:
• Tuberculosis Reference Laboratory: Construction at Mpilo Hospital is 85% complete.
• Water Tank at Chitungwiza Central Hospital: Progress is at 55% completion.
• X-ray Machine Installations: Completed at Chikurubi Maximum Prison Hospital and Inkomo Barracks Hospital.
• Oxygen Plant Rooms: Construction at Lupane Hospital and Chinhoyi Provincial Hospital is expected to finish this month.
• Waiting Mothers’ Shelters and Theatres: Renovation materials have been procured for 10 hospitals, including Mt. Darwin, St. Albert’s, and Sanyati.
Sugar Tax Under Scrutiny
While the sugar tax has provided crucial funds for healthcare improvements, it has not been without controversy. Critics argue that it places additional financial pressure on consumers, while supporters emphasize the importance of investing in critical healthcare infrastructure.
For Zimbabweans facing the growing burden of cancer diagnoses, the announcement brings hope of improved access to treatment. The government’s ability to follow through on its promises will likely influence public opinion on the sugar tax and its broader healthcare initiatives.
With the procurement process already underway, Zimbabwe could see new cancer machines operational in 2025, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s healthcare system.