— stroke survivors, caregivers call for action in Zim
By Jacob Ngwenya
Every year, on October 29, the world observes World Stroke Day — a day dedicated to raising awareness about stroke prevention, treatment, and recovery. The 2025 theme, “Every Minute Counts,” highlights the critical importance of timely action in saving lives and improving outcomes for stroke survivors. Around the globe, individuals, communities, and organizations come together to educate, advocate, and support those affected by stroke.
Zimbabwe is facing a silent crisis. Stroke is on the rise, affecting young and old, rich and poor, urban and rural alike. Yet, too many lives are lost because help comes too late, and too many survivors are left without access to treatment or rehabilitation.
“We are the faces behind the numbers,” say stroke survivors, caregivers, and families across the country. “Stroke changes everything — how we move, speak, work, and dream — but it does not take away our dignity, our humanity, or our right to recover.”
Each year, millions experience stroke worldwide. In Zimbabwe, the impact is felt far beyond hospitals — in homes, workplaces, and communities. Survivors share the fear, silence, and barriers they face daily. But they also share hope.
“Stroke can be prevented. Stroke can be treated. Recovery is possible,” they say. “With early detection, quick emergency care, and access to rehabilitation, lives can be saved, families restored, and communities strengthened.”
Champions Without Borders – DARES Zimbabwe, a network of survivors and caregivers, is leading the call for urgent action. Their recommendations include making stroke a national health priority, developing a fully funded National Stroke Action Plan, training healthcare workers and rehabilitation teams, and including survivors in decision-making.
Jacob Ngwanya, a champion with Champions Without Borders, emphasizes, “We are not waiting for change — we are creating it. Every minute counts. Every voice counts. Every life counts.”
The lived-experience community believes stroke is not just a health issue — it is a human rights issue. With proper prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation, survivors can walk, speak, and live again. Families stay together. Workers return to their jobs. Communities thrive.
Zimbabwe has a chance to act now. The survivors, caregivers, and advocates are ready. They are determined. They are demanding stroke action — because every minute matters.
