‘Matebeleland South needs new hospital’

MATABELELAND South governor Angeline Masuku has called on the private sector and the business community to work with the government in constructing a new provincial hospital in Gwanda

MATABELELAND South governor Angeline Masuku has called on the private sector and the business community to work with the government in constructing a new provincial hospital in Gwanda, as the existing one had become too congested.

By Own Correspondent

Masuku said this when she officiated at the ninth Gwanda Multi-disciplinary Training School graduation ceremony on Friday where 187 students graduated with diplomas in environmental health, general nursing and midwifery.

“As you are aware, Gwanda is surrounded by a lot of resettlement areas and the populace is putting a huge load on our hospital. There is need for stakeholders to work together so the current hospital can then become a district hospital,” she said.

Masuku said there was need to improve salaries and working conditions for health professionals. She urged nurses to discharge their duties in a professional manner.

“We call upon the relevant authorities to look at remuneration for health professionals and strive for better working conditions. I urge you to also take note of the fact that no employer or community will tolerate malpractice, laziness or absenteeism from work,” the governor said.

Masuku applauded the graduands for remaining in the country when Zimbabwe experienced harsh economic conditions over the past years. Zimbabwe lost most of its professionals to neighbouring countries, as they sought greener pastures following an economic collapse.

“Even in hard times you stood by your country as others sought greener pastures elsewhere,” she said.