The Government has committed US$27.5 million towards the procurement of cancer treatment machines as part of efforts to improve healthcare infrastructure and address the growing burden of cancer in Zimbabwe.
Health and Child Care Minister, Douglas Mombeshora, told Parliament on Wednesday that cancer, particularly colorectal cancer, has become one of the top four cancers affecting the population. He said the Ministry is prioritising prevention, early detection, and improved access to diagnostic and treatment services.
“We generally encourage individuals over the age of 40 to undergo annual check-ups for various diseases, including cancer. Colonoscopies are advised at age 40, with follow-ups after three years if no abnormalities are detected. There are also tumour marker tests now available in Zimbabwe, which make detection easier,” Mombeshora said.
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In response to concerns over access to equipment, the Minister explained that specialist doctors at central and provincial hospitals currently conduct colonoscopies, but challenges remain due to inadequate equipment at district hospitals. To close this gap, the Government is procuring diagnostic equipment such as CT scans, MRI scanners and ultrasound machines, which will be decentralised to provincial hospitals.
The Minister further clarified the delay in acquiring cancer machines despite the collection of the Sugar Tax since January 2024. He said cancer treatment machines are highly specialised and expensive, with each costing up to US$5 million. Procurement required consultations with oncologists, detailed technical specifications, and the construction of specialised bunkers for installation due to radiation requirements.
“By December 2024, we had US$30.3 million allocated for this purpose. We awarded tenders to two companies for the supply of machines at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals and Mpilo Central Hospital, where there has been a shortage for three years. A total of US$27.5 million has been committed, and contracts have been signed. We are now waiting for Treasury to pay the 30% deposit to suppliers. The machines should be manufactured and installed within 36 weeks,” Mombeshora told lawmakers.
He added that the second phase of procurement would cover diagnostic machines for provincial hospitals, with tenders expected to be completed within two months.
The development comes as legislators raised concerns over delays in deploying cancer treatment machines, despite urgent demand.
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