Government Promises Better Conditions for Nurses as Zimbabwe Marks International Nurses Day
The Government has pledged to improve the welfare and working conditions of nurses and other healthcare professionals as Zimbabwe commemorated International Nurses Day in Harare on Monday.
Speaking during celebrations held at The Avenues Clinic, Deputy Health and Child Care Minister Sleiman Kwidini said nurses remain the backbone of the country’s healthcare system and deserve better support and recognition.
He said the Government was working on measures aimed at improving conditions of service and incentives for healthcare workers in both public and private institutions.
“We respect our nurses and doctors and we want them to be happy when they are rendering care to patients,” said Dr Kwidini.
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Government Targets Better Incentives
Dr Kwidini said the Second Republic was committed to ensuring that healthcare workers are not left behind as the country strengthens its health delivery system.
He noted that authorities were engaging various stakeholders to enhance incentives and working conditions for nurses across the sector.
The Deputy Minister also stressed the importance of cooperation between public and private healthcare institutions, saying both sectors play a critical role in serving communities.
“We are serving one community, whether in public or private institutions. We all belong to Zimbabwe and deserve equal recognition,” he said.
Concerns Over Nurse Migration
Dr Kwidini acknowledged the continued migration of Zimbabwean nurses to countries such as the United Kingdom and Australia in search of better opportunities.
Despite the brain drain, he said Zimbabwean nurses continue to distinguish themselves internationally because of their professionalism, skills and dedication to duty.
He also urged nurses to maintain high standards of professionalism and follow infection prevention measures, including the proper use of protective clothing while on duty.
The commemorations were held under the theme, “Our Nurses, Our Future: Empowered Nurses Save Lives.”
Focus on Training and Professional Development
Principal Nursing Officer at The Avenues Clinic, Florence Ogwal, said empowering nurses through continuous education and professional development was essential for improving patient care and strengthening healthcare systems.
She revealed that the clinic plans to introduce an Oncology and Palliative Care Nursing Programme in 2026 as part of efforts to expand specialist nursing training.
Mrs Ogwal said the institution was also working with the University of Zimbabwe and Government health institutions to train undergraduate and postgraduate nursing practitioners.
She highlighted some of the clinic’s achievements in patient care, including the successful treatment and discharge of premature babies weighing as little as 600 grammes.
Call for Professionalism
Representing the Nurses Council of Zimbabwe, Debra Kavhayi urged nurses to uphold professionalism, discipline and ethical conduct in their work.
She warned against drug and substance abuse within the profession, saying such behaviour threatens patient safety and damages the integrity of healthcare services.
“Professionalism in nursing should be reflected through conduct, appearance, discipline and attitude towards patients. Drug and substance abuse has no place within the nursing profession,” she said.
Kavhayi also encouraged healthcare institutions to strengthen counselling services, staff wellness programmes and mentorship initiatives to better support healthcare workers.
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