Shot in the arm for Chivhu General Hospital

THE Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) has once again demonstrated its commitment to giving back to the community, this time at Chivhu General Hospital.

This comes as POTRAZ has donated essential items, including 50 bed mattresses, sheets, US$17 000 worth of medicines, and food hampers, to support the disabled community.

“As part of POTRAZ’s DNA, we prioritise giving back to the community,” said Biggie Chiripanhura, POTRAZ acting director-general.

“Every year, we allocate a significant budget towards sustainable development programs, especially in underdeveloped communities.”

POTRAZ’s corporate social investments are guided by the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on social and economic development.Recent initiatives include drilling solar-powered boreholes, intervening during national disasters, and establishing telemedicine facilities in remote areas.

“We partner with various Ministries and stakeholders to reach vulnerable groups nationwide, including children, the elderly, people with disabilities, and widows,” Chiripanhura added.

Chivhu General Hospital medical superintendent Gift Munjanja said the hospital’s capacity is stretched due to the mine’s presence and increased number of accidents along the Harare Beitbridge highway.

“We lack a casualty unit to attend to patients, and with the presence of Manhize Steel Plant Mine, we’ve seen a surge in demand for hospital services,” he said.

“Our major challenges are space constraints to manage patients and drug shortages. However, thanks to POTRAZ’s recent donation of medicines, we’re hopeful this will help alleviate some pressure.”

POTRAZ’s dedication to leaving no one behind is evident in its widespread outreach, having invested in areas such as Binga, Rushinga, Tsholotsho, and Chimanimani.Zimbabwe’s government encourages CSR through policies and incentives, recognising its role in complementing national development.