THE government is looking for more than $10 million from the corporate world to set up an effective Ebola prevention programme for the country.
MTHANDAZO NYONI OWN CORRESPONDENT
Speaking at the Ebola call-to-action breakfast meeting yesterday in Bulawayo, director of epidemiology and disease control Portia Manangazira said Zimbabwe was at low risk of getting Ebola, but the government should put necessary measures to prevent the disease sweeping into the country.
“Zimbabwe is at low risk of getting Ebola according to the World Health Organisation,” she said.
“However, we find it prudent to ensure that Zimbabwe puts in place plans and preparations.
“Huge resources should be mobilised. For surveillance we need $1 921 808, case management $1 185 250, co-ordination $34 475, health promotion $637 200, laboratory $4 048 000, logistics $3 100 and infection control $646 219.”
Manangazira said in total, the government needed $11 572 952 for the pre to post-epidemic phase, while $2,8 million was needed immediately before any infection was recorded.
She pleaded with the corporate world to chip in with the funds.
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Manangazira said the government would, after two days, create an Ebola fund, where companies and individuals wishing to contribute would put in their monies.
Speaking at the same function, Health and Child Care deputy minister Paul Chimedza said Zimbabweans should come together and fight against the threat posed by Ebola.
“As government, we have done what needs to be done and we have not left any stone unturned,” he said.
“At the moment we need thermal dictators so that our people remain protected.
“This is the time for Zimbabweans to come together and work as a team.”
Econet Zimbabwe chief executive officer Douglas Mboweni said Ebola had negative implications on socioeconomic activities across the continent.
He said Zimbabwe has lost millions worth of businesses through Ebola rumours and encouraged people to remain resolute.
The function was organised by the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries in conjunction with Econet Zimbabwe and the government.
The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority last month said Zimbabwe had lost business worth $6 million since the outbreak of the highly contagious virus in March which has resulted in limited international travel.
About 30 foreign buyers withdrew their participation at this year’s Sanganai/Hlanganai World Tourism Expo early this month.
Presently, Ebola has killed about 5 000 people in West Africa.
No cases of the virus have been recorded in Zimbabwe.
