Bulawayo City Council (BCC) leaders and residents gathered in the city last week to commemorate Breast Cancer Awareness Month and World Mental Health Day 2025, amid calls for citizens to be conscious of the deadly disease's existence and take precautionary measures.
The event, held to promote health education, early detection, and emotional support for those affected, brought together community members, healthcare professionals and civic leaders who emphasised the importance of holistic well-being, addressing both the body and the mind.
Bulawayo mayor David Coltart underscored the connection between physical and mental health, noting that the two could not be separated when addressing the challenges faced by breast cancer patients.
He said while breast cancer awareness campaigns have grown stronger, mental health often remained in the shadows.
“It is a privilege to stand before you today as we observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month and recognise World Mental Health Day,” he said.
“These two causes, though often spoken of separately, are deeply intertwined; we must acknowledge that connection in a more meaningful way, especially in our communities."
Coltart called for inclusivity in cancer awareness, urging residents to remember that breast cancer does not only affect women.
“Let us remind our brothers, fathers, husbands and friends to also check themselves. Early detection saves lives,” he said.
- Uproar over census figures
- Byo Arts Festival in turmoil…One year later, festival has yet to pay artists…Organisers play cat and mouse with artists
- Bulawayo struggles to clear housing backlog
- Council acts tough on debts
Keep Reading
Coltart noted that a breast cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, often leading to depression, anxiety and isolation.
He stated that healing must be holistic, urging that mental health support be embedded in all stages of cancer care.
About 4% of Zimbabweans are living with depression, while 2,8% experience anxiety disorders, according to the World Health Organisation.
“Between 2015 and 2019, over 2 500 suicide cases were recorded nationwide, a reminder that emotional pain can be deadly when left unspoken,” Coltart said.
The mayor called for the creation of safe community spaces where people can talk openly about their struggles without fear of judgement.
“To every healthcare provider here, keep listening with compassion, to every survivor and fighter, your voice matters, to policymakers, invest in integrated care that treats both the body and the mind.”
Ntombizodwa Khumalo, BCC’s chairperson for Health, Housing, and Education, said the city was committed to promoting wellness across all communities through access to healthcare, education and partnerships with organisations involved in service delivery.
“As a city, we are deeply committed to promoting health and wellness,” she said.
“Together, through awareness, action and support, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by breast cancer."
She outlined three main objectives for this year’s campaign, highlighting the importance of early detection and timely diagnosis, strengthening partnerships to create greater impact and promoting equitable access to quality care through global health initiatives.
Coltart urged the community to continue the fight beyond October.
“Let this not just be a time for pink ribbons and green campaigns,” he said.
Coltart said health was not complete unless it included the mind and the body; no one should walk this journey alone.
