Tinotenda Hove – Members of Parliament have sharply criticised the Ministry of Health and Child Care for failing to provide a comprehensive account of how funds collected through the sugar tax have been used, demanding full transparency from the tax’s inception to date.

The concerns were raised following a ministerial statement delivered in the National Assembly by Deputy Minister Sleiman Kwidini, in response to a February inquiry by legislators. The inquiry sought clarity on the utilisation of the sugar tax introduced by Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube.

The sugar tax, which came into effect on 1 January 2024, was intended to reduce excessive sugar consumption while generating revenue to support the treatment of lifestyle-related diseases such as cancer.

In his response, Kwidini revealed that US$30.8 million collected in 2024 had been directed towards strengthening Zimbabwe’s cancer diagnosis and treatment capacity.

He said contracts had been awarded for two low-energy radiotherapy machines at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals and Mpilo Central Hospital, while two additional machines had already been delivered and were awaiting installation.

He further indicated that the government plans to procure more medical equipment, including CT scanners, MRI machines, and mammography units, to improve early detection and overall cancer care.

However, legislators dismissed the explanation as inadequate, arguing that it failed to provide a detailed breakdown of expenditures and omitted figures for 2025.

Bulawayo Central MP Surrender Kapoikilu said the report did not address Parliament’s core concerns.

“When we requested the ministerial statement, we did not request what has been presented now. We wanted to know how much was collected from inception to date, and what the money was used for,” he said.

“Yes, he gave us a figure that by November 2024, we had collected 30.8 million. What did the ministry buy? Did it buy linear accelerators that radiate cancer? Did it buy simulators?
“If it bought those, how much were they? If they bought those, which type, because there are different types of linear accelerators? Proton therapy machines, did you buy them? Did you buy a UPS system?

“Because these machines are not just plugged in like a television or an electric kettle.”
Mbizo MP Corban Madzivanyika echoed similar concerns, urging the ministry to specify exactly how many critical items had been procured.

He said Parliament needed details on the acquisition of X-ray machines, CT scanners, MRI machines, as well as essential patient care equipment such as ventilators, wheelchairs, and hospital beds.

Acting Speaker and Phelandaba-Tshabalala MP Joseph Tshuma backed the calls, directing the ministry to return to Parliament with a more detailed and transparent report.

The mounting pressure from lawmakers highlights growing demands for accountability over public funds, particularly those earmarked for critical health interventions.