MILLICENT HUNGWE
ZVISHAVANE-Hospital staff and residents are up in arms over the erection of a black sheeted food outlet at the entrance of White Hospital in the mineral rich town of Zvishavane.
Residents and health workers are arguing that the tuck shop pose a health hazard to patients and an eyesore at the health institution.
The makeshift structure sell cooked food to passersby, patients and hospital staff yet it is not licensed to provide such services.
Acting Medical Superintendent Takawira Chichevo expressed ignorance on the existence of the black sheeted take away when contacted by The Midweek Watch.
“Thank you for the report, I wasn’t aware of the structure and when it was put there. I will see to it that something is done and thank you for bringing this to our attention.”
Kamino Simango, chairperson of the Original Resident and Ratepayers Association in Zvishavane, emphasized the importance of maintaining hygienic standards at medical institutions, stating, “It’s not ethical for such ‘Mukoko’ at a medical institution like that; however, there is an abuse of office by the medical workers because there is a hygienic structured one for use at the same place.”
While some argue that the tuck shop provides convenience for workers and patients, offering meal options, a resident who wished to remain anonymous noted, “Such a structure cannot be seen on medical premises; rather, it should be on a hygienic structure.”
“Once Zvishavane District Hospital has set a bad precedent in violation of environmental healthcare by allowing a Mukuku kitchen at the hospital it shows that they preach what they don’t practice at Eastvale Shopping Center such kitchens were demolished, it appears some corrupt activities are taking place in connection with the kitchen,” said Kamino.
