Mombeshora says 60% of Zimbabweans trust n'angas over his hospitals

Health Minister Douglas Mombeshora declared that approximately 60 percent of Zimbabwe's population consults traditional healers for medical care. He made these statements during the official launch of Tait Medical Centre in Rusape. The minister acknowledged traditional healers while emphasizing hospital visits remain necessary for proper healthcare. Zimbabwe's health sector faces severe challenges as over 4,000 medical professionals have emigrated to countries like Britain and South Africa. The government struggles to provide competitive wages for doctors and nurses.

Public hospitals report worsening conditions with patients dying without adequate treatment. Treasury consistently fails to allocate the required 15 percent of national budget to healthcare as mandated by the 2001 Abuja Declaration. The National Health Insurance Scheme Bill approaches final parliamentary stages this month. Implementation will begin in 2026 to provide free medical services to all citizens. The government pledges increased domestic health funding and facility improvements.

Zimbabwe achieved removal from the high tuberculosis burden classification. Malaria cases have decreased despite occasional disease outbreaks. The minister promised free medications and X-rays at all public facilities under the new insurance program.