By Own Correspondent
Zivai Mhetu, the legislator for Epworth North constituency, has made a heartfelt plea to the United States government to reconsider its decision to halt health-related foreign aid, urging them to continue supporting vital health services that save lives in Zimbabwe.
Mhetu expressed concern that the sudden suspension of aid is severely impacting healthcare delivery in his constituency. He made the remarks after visiting several health facilities in Epworth North, following a directive by former US President Donald Trump to cease aid to African countries.
Mhetu stated:
“Prior notice on cutting aid—at least 24 months—would have been appropriate, as the abrupt halt not only jeopardizes the beneficiaries but also violates legitimate expectations. The Zimbabwean government passed its budget in December 2024, and covering this gap may require a supplementary budget, which is unlikely due to the already heavy tax burden on citizens.”
He revealed that the aid cut has resulted in a reduction of staff at local health clinics, further straining the already limited resources and staff. “I was informed of staff reductions at Epworth Poly and Overspill clinics after Zimtech and PEPFAR withdrew 6 nurses and 5 primary counselors from Epworth Poly Clinic. At Overspill Clinic, 5 nurses and 4 primary counselors also left, while 1 nurse and 2 primary counselors departed from Epworth Mission Clinic. The remaining staff are overwhelmed, and the District Medical Officer has called for the government to send in locum staff to fill the gap.”
In a recent statement, the US Embassy in Zimbabwe announced that all US-related funding is under review to align with Washington’s foreign policy priorities.
The embassy’s statement reads:
“The review of all foreign assistance programs will ensure they are efficient and consistent with U.S. foreign policy under the America First agenda. The US Embassy in Zimbabwe has paused its foreign assistance and is reviewing its programs to align with this Executive Order and the waiver.”
The statement, quoting Secretary Rubio, emphasized that every aid dollar must advance America’s national interests.
The US has long been a key partner in supporting Zimbabwe’s health and food security sectors. Through PEPFAR, the US has helped improve the health of 1.2 million Zimbabweans living longer, healthier lives due to access to HIV services. Over 1,600 public hospitals and clinics have also benefited from US-funded training and technical support.
PEPFAR remains a crucial part of Zimbabwe’s efforts to combat HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, providing antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) and condoms.
As the representative for Epworth North, Mhetu has taken it upon himself to engage with various donor agencies and well-wishers to ensure that health centres in his constituency have adequate medication supplies, despite the funding cuts.