Godwin Gumbo
Plumtree– Plumtree District Hospital is grappling with a critical shortage of essential medicines, with current stock levels hovering at a concerning 49%. This alarming situation was highlighted by the hospital’s District Medical Officer (DMO), Dr. Nganunu, during a recent visit by the Minister of State for Devolution in Matabeleland South Province, Honorable Evelyn Ndlovu.
In addition to the medicine shortage, Dr. Nganunu cited a non-functional X-ray machine due to a lack of funds as another major challenge facing the hospital.
Minister Ndlovu, responding to the urgent needs of the hospital, donated two tonnes of mealie meal to support patient nutrition. The timely intervention came after residents of Mangwe District raised concerns about the hospital’s difficulties.
“I felt compelled to act on the outcry from the community and provide assistance to the hospital in Matabeleland South,” Minister Ndlovu stated. She emphasized the importance of prioritizing nutrition for patients to improve their overall well-being and recovery.
The donated mealie meal, provided by the Ministry of Public Service, Labour, and Social Welfare, will be distributed among the seven district hospitals in Matabeleland South. A portion of the mealie meal will also be allocated to families facing severe food shortages, including child-headed households and the elderly.
The business community was urged to contribute to the hospital’s efforts by donating food items as part of their corporate social responsibility.
In her closing remarks, Minister Ndlovu appealed to residents of surrounding districts to pay for the services they receive at the hospital. “There is a concerning trend of people receiving treatment but not paying, even when they have the means. Let us be responsible citizens and ensure that our hospitals can function effectively,” she said.
The mealie meal donation is expected to provide a significant boost to the hospital’s ability to adequately feed its patients, especially in light of the El Niño-induced drought that has severely affected Matebeleland South.
