Roseline Mutare
Masvingo Province has enough supply of antiretroviral therapy (ART) to last for the next seven months despite the abrupt funding withdrawal by the Trump administration of main partner USAID.
This was revealed by the Permanent Secretary for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Dr Addmore Pazvakavambwa during a press conference held at Chevron Hotel yesterday to shed light on the state of health.
Pazvakavambwa urged patients not to panic, stating that the current stockpile of ART would last until alternative arrangements are made. He highlighted the province’s commitment to catering for the health needs of its residents, citing the impressive number of health facilities dotted around.
“Masvingo Province boasts an impressive 231 health facilities, comprising 13 secondary health facilities, 7 mission facilities, 6 government facilities, 3 private facilities, 12 rural hospitals, 14 mission clinics, 71 government clinics, and 104 council clinics. The province has also made significant strides in reducing the walking distance to health facilities, from 20km to 7km,” said Pazvakavambwa.
His assurance comes amidst concerns over the impact of the USAID funding suspension on Zimbabwe’s health sector. The suspension has raised fears of disruptions to essential health services, including ART programs. However, with a seven months’ supply of ART, Masvingo Province is well-positioned to weather the storm, he added.
