Venus Charumbira
Environment and Health Reporter
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Bulawayo \u2013 Cancer has surpassed HIV\/AIDS as Zimbabwe\u2019s leading cause of death, with delayed diagnoses and a critical shortage of oncologists contributing to thousands of preventable fatalities annually. The Ministry of Health and Child Care reports over 1,500 cancer-related deaths each year since 2019, with most patients facing life-threatening treatment delays.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To address the crisis, Zimbabwe is decentralizing cancer care by establishing new treatment centers in Gweru and Mutare, funded by a $130.8 million allocation from the Sugar Tax. The Health Ministry also plans to procure 10-12 advanced radiotherapy machines, including linear accelerators, by December 2025.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“Decentralizing services will ease pressure on Parirenyatwa and Mpilo hospitals, reduce wait times, and save lives,” said Lovemore Makumbirofa, Research Officer at the Cancer Association of Zimbabwe (CAZ).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
At Mpilo Central Hospital in Bulawayo, only a handful of radiotherapy machines are functional, forcing patients to endure months-long waiting lists. Many die before receiving care.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“My sister waited eight months for radiotherapy. By then, the cancer had spread too far,” shared Memory Ndlovu, a grieving relative from Gwanda.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Despite infrastructure improvements, treatment remains unaffordable for most. A single session costs $150 to $1,000\u2014far beyond the reach of many in a country where the majority earn less than $200 monthly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“Without subsidies, these new machines will only benefit those who can pay,” warned Itai Rusike, Executive Director of the Community Working Group on Health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
While the expansion marks progress, experts stress that sustained funding, equipment maintenance, and stronger diagnostic systems are vital for long-term success.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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