Africa-Press – Zimbabwe. GOVERNMENT says it is committed to strengthening access to primary health care services in marginalised communities through inclusive and equitable access to healthcare.
Health and Child Care minister Douglas Mombeshora said this during the launch of the Community Health Equity Fund (CHEF) at Hopley in Harare on Wednesday.
In a speech read on his behalf by acting permanent secretary Stephen Banda during the launch of the Community Health Equity Fund (CHEF), Mombeshora said the initiative seeks to improve health outcomes for marginalised communities.
Under the CHEF scheme, residents can enrol by paying a once-off US$1 registration fee and an annual US$2 subscription.
CHEF is being seed-funded to the tune of US$709 000 through the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Strategic Investment Facility.
He said the fund is aligned with the government’s broader push to establish a national health insurance framework.
“The vision of my ministry is to achieve the highest possible level of health and quality of life for all citizens by 2030,” Mombeshora said.
“To achieve this vision, we must ensure we address the healthcare needs of underprivileged communities like Hopley.”
“The fund’s motto, ‘My Health, Our Health-Utano Hwedu’, underscores the link between individual wellbeing and community health.”
Mayor Jacob Mafume said the city was preparing its infrastructure for increased demand.
“There is a need to extend this clinic so it contains a fully-fledged maternity wing,” he said.
“Our mothers deserve dignified spaces to give birth and we must respond with urgency.”
UNFPA representative Miranda Tabifor said the fund demonstrated the power of collaboration.
“This fund is a shining example of what can be achieved when stakeholders unite with a shared purpose to address the health needs of vulnerable communities.”
Residents welcomed the programme, with Petronella Gatsi, saying it would ease financial strain.
“For years, we have had to choose between buying food and paying clinic fees,” she said.
“With this programme, at least our children can be treated without us panicking about money.”
The project will be piloted in the Southern district, starting with Mbare and Hopley, before being rolled out across Harare from 2026.
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