THE Zimbabwean health sector has received a major boost after the United Arab Emirates (UAE) donated medical equipment and supplies worth US$700 000.
Part of the donation received includes 74 intensive care unit (ICU) ventilators, much needed in life-saving respiratory conditions.
Also included in the donation are 34 tonnes of essential medical supplies.
While speaking at the handover of the goods, Health and Child Care deputy minister Sleiman Kwidini thanked the UAE for their gesture, which he said would aid in reducing deaths and other health-related fatalities that arise due to a lack of essential supplies and equipment.
“Today’s donation comprises 34 tonnes of essential medical supplies, including 74 ICU ventilators, which are critical for managing life-threatening respiratory conditions,” he said.
“This consignment is valued at US$623,737 and includes: hypodermic 23G needles worth US$449 249, syringes and ICU ventilators valued at US$122 515. These are not just figures on paper — these are life-saving tools.
“They represent our ability to respond more effectively to emergencies, reduce mortality, and provide quality care to the people of Zimbabwe, especially in our rural and underserved communities.”
Added Kwidini: “This generous contribution directly supports our ongoing efforts to achieve Universal Health Coverage and aligns with the government’s health sector strategy.”
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The deputy minister said the donation would ease pressure on public hospitals, enhance intensive care services and ultimately improve health outcomes across the nation.
“This gesture is not just about medical supplies. It is about empathy, hope and human dignity. It is about empowering communities, building capacity and ensuring that no land is left behind due to lack of resources,” he said.
“As we celebrate this milestone, we also look to the future. Zimbabwe is committed to further deepening cooperation with the UAE, not only in healthcare, but in areas such as public health, such as trade, infrastructure development and knowledge exchange.”
Also speaking at the same event, UAE ambassador to Zimbabwe, Jassim Mohamed Al-Hassanini expressed their commitment to maintaining solidarity and cooperation between nations as it is the best path to overcoming health and humanitarian challenges.
“We hope this medical aid makes a positive difference in the lives of the people in Zimbabwe,” he said.
“We would like to thank the Government of Zimbabwe for giving us the opportunity to hand over this donation under the framework of our good and strong relationships between the UAE and Zimbabwe.”
