Tinotenda Hove – More than US$2 million has been mobilised towards the refurbishment of Ingutsheni Central Hospital following a high-profile fundraising luncheon hosted by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in Bulawayo on Friday, 20 March.

The event, held at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition and Smart City Centre, attracted significant contributions from government officials and business leaders. President Mnangagwa personally pledged US$1 million towards the rehabilitation programme. He also backed requests for agricultural equipment and committed to fixing all hospital vehicles requiring urgent repairs.

Mthuli Ncube, the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, revealed that US$600,000 was raised through the sale of luncheon seats. He added that he contributed US$20,000 from his own resources.

Vice President Kembo Mohadi donated US$100,000, while prominent business figures Kudakwashe Tagwirei, Obey Chimuka, and Paul Tungwarara gave US$350,000, US$150,000, and US$250,000 respectively.

Addressing guests at the event, Mohadi outlined why the initiative was necessary, highlighting the dire conditions at the institution.

“I found that the hospital is operating far beyond what it was designed for, and I was shocked by the state of the facility given its critical role in society,” Mohadi said. “The situation there is deeply troubling. Staff members are committed, but they are working under severe constraints without the basic resources needed to provide proper care. Patients are also forced to endure an environment that falls far short of acceptable standards.”

He stressed that facilities such as Ingutsheni Central Hospital play a crucial role in supporting both the mental and physical health of citizens, calling for a united effort to restore and improve the institution’s services.