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Zambia offers health care to Zimbabweans — but for how long?

Published

12 months ago

October 30, 2024

VicFallsLive

Illustration Credit: Wynona Mutisi for Global Press Journal

BY GAMUCHIRAI MASIYIWA

Summary: Zambia is as generous with patients from neighboring Zimbabwe as it is with its own citizens. That could mean problems for both countries.

This story was originally published by Global Press Journal.

MASHONALAND WEST, ZIMBABWE — When Dube was diagnosed with gallstones in 2013, the public hospital in Zimbabwe recommended surgery costing close to 4,000 United States dollars. She couldn’t afford that.

A friend suggested she go to Zambia, about 150 kilometers (94 miles) to the north. There, the friend said, treatment would be cheaper.

Over the past decade, Dube has gone to Zambia multiple times for medical treatment. Her most recent trip was in June. Treatment is cheaper there, she says, but the level of care is also far better than what she would get at home. Dube asked that Global Press Journal use her totem name, a symbolic representation of ancestral lineage, out of concern about Zimbabwe’s Patriotic Bill, which discourages criticism of the government.

In the 1980s, Zimbabwe had one of the best health care systems in sub-Saharan Africa. But over the years, this glory has faded. An ongoing economic crisis spanning over two decades has left the health care system scrambling to meet the needs of its population. Skilled health care workers have left in droves, drawn to opportunities abroad. More than 4,000 health care workers left Zimbabwe in 2021 and 2022 alone, according to government statistics. By late 2022, Zimbabwe had about 1,700 doctors and about 17,200 nurses to serve a population of 15 million people.

Just as health care workers are leaving the country, so are patients.

Over the past decade, Zimbabweans have spent more than 4 billion US dollars on cross-border medical migration. Annually, more than 200,000 Zimbabweans spend around 400 million US dollars on specialized medical treatment abroad. India, China, Singapore and South Africa are the main destinations.

But an increasingly popular choice is neighboring Zambia. In April alone, the International Organization for Migration surveyed over 260 people migrating from Zimbabwe to Zambia. When asked why they were traveling, 42% stated that it was to access better services — health being the top priority.

Precise data is hard to come by, but anecdotal evidence from sources who spoke to Global Press Journal, including border officials, points to a growing trend, raising questions about Zambia’s ability to manage the influx, and the future of health care in Zimbabwe.

The choice of Zambia

Zambia and Zimbabwe allocated nearly the same amount of money to their health sectors in 2024, even though Zambia is home to 4 million more people. With that budget, it’s an unlikely alternative to the Zimbabwean healthcare system. And in Africa, it’s South Africa and Kenya that are top destinations for medical tourism.

But the border with Zambia isn’t far for many Zimbabweans, making the cost of travel low and the process of crossing the border usually straightforward. A person needs either a passport or a pass issued at the border for just 1 US dollar, says Morgen Moyo, assistant regional immigration officer at the Chirunduborder post.

Even without documentation, immigration officials will at times let those seeking health care pass through. “Zambians prioritize life,” Moyo says.

It’s not only about convenience. Zambia offers free primary health services, including basic treatment, preventative care, vaccinations and maternal health care services, according to the 2022-2026 Zambia National Health Strategic Plan.

While these free services are not available to foreigners long-term, they can access them in emergencies within the first 24 to 48 hours in the country, says Dr. Kennedy Lishimpi, permanent secretary of administration for the Zambian Ministry of Health. Foreigners are expected to pay for Zambian health care after that timeframe.

In practice, though, Zambian health workers rarely charge foreigners, according to a 2019 study paid for by the US Agency for International Development, known as USAID.

“You wouldn’t want to see somebody from Zimbabwe, for instance, getting to Zambia and not accessing a service and then they end up dying. That is not good. Similarly, we expect that our sister countries do the same to our citizens when they are there,” Lishimpi says.

Dr. Mwanza, a Zambian doctor who chose to use only his last name for fear of retribution, says availability of surgical and specialist services in Zambia drives medical migration. In Zimbabwe, these services are rarely available outside of the large provincial and central hospitals. In 2019, for example, about 10% of district hospitals could provide basic surgeries, compared to 83% of provincial and central hospitals, according to a Zimbabwe health ministry assessment.

When Mary Chipfuvamiti’s son broke his arm in June, she says she chose a hospital in Zambia — about 93 kilometers (nearly 58 miles) from her home — over local options. She suspected the local hospital’s X-ray machine wouldn’t be working, and they would likely refer her to a private facility where an X-ray would cost her 40 US dollars.

“I only had 30 dollars on me,” she says. In Zambia, the total cost came to about 12.50 US dollars.

A case for Zimbabwe

Things haven’t always been like this in Zimbabwe. Before the country’s economy took a downturn, it offered free health services in the 1980s to low-income earners. About 90% of the population fell in that bracket.

In the early 1990s, the government introduced user fees in public health facilities as part of the austerity measures imposed on the government by the International Monetary Fund to reduce government expenditures. Currently, free health services are offered only to pregnant and lactating mothers, children under age 5 and adults over 60.

The economic crisis continues to strain what remains of the health care system. Hospitals struggle with obsolete infrastructure. Shortages of medicines and supplies in public health facilities are the norm.

And although Zimbabwe and Zambia have similar health budgets, Zimbabwe’s treasury sometimes delays funds disbursement, says Norman Matara, secretary general for the Zimbabwe Association of Doctors for Human Rights.

That was the case in 2021, when the health ministry by September had used just 46% of its budget allocation for the fiscal year due to late disbursement of funds, according to a 2024 situational report by the Zimbabwe Coalition on Debt and Development, a nongovernmental organization that advocates for socioeconomic justice.

“There is a mismatch between the money that is put on the budget and what is being received by the health institutions,” Matara says. Reasons include hyperinflation and currency rate fluctuations, he adds.

Comparing health services across countries is unfair, says Donald Mujiri, a Zimbabwe health ministry spokesperson. “Each country has its set standards and pricing.”

He doesn’t think this migration of patients reflects poorly on Zimbabwe’s health care system. “We have all the services in the country, and they are adequate to serve the people,” he says, adding that people are free to seek health care where they want.

Mujiri did not address questions regarding the late disbursement of funds.

The cost of the journey

These journeys to Zambia come with challenges.

Dube recalled her trips along the bumpy Harare-ChirunduHighway that connects the two countries, when every bump caused piercing pain.

In 2019, six years after her initial treatment in Zambia, she began experiencing severe pain. She went to a hospital in Harare for treatment, but a few months later the pain resurfaced. By that time, there was a health care strike at home, forcing her back to Zambia for treatment. Then in 2023, Zambian doctors discovered metal clips from her earlier surgery in Zimbabwe were piercing her liver. She returned to Zambia in January this year for corrective surgery, and again in June.

Health care experts warn that such journeys can be especially risky for patients who undergo surgery. If a surgery is performed in Zambia and there is no proper follow-up, there can be complications if doctors in Zimbabwe are unaware of previous procedures or tests, says Mukanya, a health expert working in a Zimbabwean hospital who chose to use his totem, fearing that speaking to the media would cost him his job.

In the case of misdiagnosis or malpractice in a foreign country, it’s difficult to get recourse. “In most cases you are powerless because you don’t know the [reporting] process and approaching a lawyer may require money,” he says.

Medical migration also comes at a cost to Zambia. The influx of patients complicates health planning, leading to shortages of essential medications and making it difficult to allocate resources effectively, according to USAID. The agency’s report recommends the Zambian government create a fee-for-service system to discourage foreigners from seeking free health care, but doctors in Zambia don’t seem to agree.

“Most health care providers interviewed stated that they would continue to provide services free of charge should a foreign patient be unable to pay,” according to the USAID report.

Lishimpi, the Zambia health ministry official, had no comment on the report’s concerns.

Dube, who is recuperating at home, is uncertain about the solutions. But she thinks the Zimbabwean government needs to prioritize fixing her country’s health care system. “I don’t know how best we can help our hospitals, but if there was any other way, I think they should consider the health sector more than anything else because we are talking of human life,” she says.

Gamuchirai Masiyiwa is a Global Press Journal reporter based in Harare, Zimbabwe.

Global Press is an award-winning international news publication with more than 40 independent news bureaus across Africa, Asia and Latin America.

Lifestyle

Marvin Dube: Spreading hope and gratitude through gospel music

Published

4 days ago

October 24, 2025

VicFallsLive

BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI

Born in Kadoma and raised across various towns in Zimbabwe, gospel artist Marvin Dube carries with him the deep spiritual and cultural roots of his Tonga heritage from Junamina village in Binga. Now based in the United Kingdom, Marvin is making waves in the gospel music scene, using his voice and message to uplift, heal, and inspire.

Following his previous single “Munoziva Zvose”, Marvin continues to evolve as a gospel minister and artist. His latest songs, Tinetariro and Tendai Mwari, showcase a refreshing mix of faith, gratitude, and reflection on the moral and spiritual challenges facing society today.

Below are excerpts from his interview with Nokuthaba Dlamini, Managing Editor for VicFallsLive, where Marvin opened up about his inspiration, journey, and the purpose behind his new work.

What inspired these new songs, and what message do you hope listeners take away from them?

Marvin Dube:

Both Tinetariro and Tendai Mwari were born out of reflection and prayer. Tinetariro speaks about hope — the kind that reminds us we are God’s children, even in times of moral decline and confusion. I was inspired by the challenges we are facing today, especially among the youth. Many have lost direction and respect, and social media has become a space where spiritual values are often mocked.

I wanted to use Tinetariro to remind people that there’s still hope for our generation — that God hasn’t forgotten us.

Tendai Mwari carries a message of gratitude. It encourages us to appreciate God for the little we have and to remain thankful even before we receive the big things we dream of — the car, the house, the job. Gratitude opens doors, and I want listeners to embrace that attitude of thankfulness every day.

How do these songs reflect your personal journey or growth as a gospel artist?

Marvin Dube:

These songs mark a point of maturity in my journey. I’ve grown to understand that gospel music is more than melody — it’s ministry. I now write with more purpose, aiming to address real issues affecting believers and society. Tinetariro and Tendai Mwari reflect my growth in both faith and artistry, showing that gospel music can heal, correct, and inspire all at once.

Can you tell us about the creative process, from writing to production, and who you worked with on this project?

Marvin Dube:

My creative process is very spiritual and organic. I draw a lot of inspiration from preaching. Often, a melody will start as a small tune in my mind — it keeps ringing until I can’t ignore it. Usually, the chorus comes first. I then take time to pray for inspiration to write the verses so that the message aligns with what God wants to say through the song.

After that, I play the song on my guitar, record a rough version, and share it with the producer or the band I’ll be working with. For this project, I worked with Hertz Records, who have produced all my music to date. They truly understand my sound and help me bring my ideas to life.

I also want to give a special shout-out to my wife, Leonora, and my two little kids. They’ve been my biggest supporters and motivation throughout this journey. Their love and encouragement mean everything to me.

How do you see gospel music evolving in Zimbabwe and Africa, and where do you see your work fitting into that movement?

Marvin Dube:

Gospel music in Zimbabwe and across Africa is evolving in powerful ways. Artists are finding new ways to reach wider audiences by blending traditional gospel messages with contemporary sounds. It’s exciting to see how the gospel is being shared in modern, relatable ways — especially among young people.

I see my work fitting right into that movement. My goal is to be a bridge between generations — to deliver timeless spiritual truths with a fresh, modern sound that speaks to today’s world while staying true to the Word of God.

What has been the most powerful reaction or testimony you’ve received from people who have listened to your music?

Marvin Dube:

One of the most powerful testimonies I’ve received came from a young listener who said Tinetariro gave them hope again after going through a very dark season. They told me the song reminded them that God still has a plan for their life. Hearing that touched me deeply. It’s moments like those that remind me this is more than music — it’s ministry, and I’m humbled that God is using my songs to touch lives.

Closing Note

Marvin Dube:

I’m truly grateful for the love and support I’ve received for Tinetariro and Tendai Mwari. If you haven’t listened yet, both songs are available on all streaming platforms and on my YouTube channel, Marvin Dube. The year 2026 will be even more exciting, with several projects already in motion that I believe will uplift and bless many lives.

National

Zimbabwe moves to establish tough drug control agency amid rising substance abuse crisis

Published

6 days ago

October 22, 2025

VicFallsLive

BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI

As Zimbabwe battles a surge in drug and substance abuse, the government has tabled a new Bill in Parliament seeking to establish a powerful agency to coordinate enforcement, rehabilitation, and prevention programmes across the country.

The National Drug and Substance Abuse Control and Enforcement Agency Bill (H.B. 12, 2025) proposes the creation of a dedicated agency mandated to combat the supply and demand of illicit drugs, provide rehabilitation services, and strengthen coordination between law enforcement and social service institutions.

According to the explanatory memorandum of the Bill, the agency will operate under two main divisions — a Social Services Intervention Division to focus on prevention, treatment and community rehabilitation, and an Enforcement Division to target supply chains, trafficking networks, and related financial crimes.

The legislation describes drug abuse as “a grave internal national security threat” and “a public health crisis” that fuels organised crime, corruption and violence. It notes that drug profits have enabled criminal cartels to “purchase the instrumentalities of crime, including weapons,” and to corrupt both civilian and non-civilian public officials.

Under the new framework, the agency will have powers to:

Investigate and arrest individuals involved in drug trafficking and production;
Work jointly with the Zimbabwe Republic Police, Zimbabwe Revenue Authority, and Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe;
Establish checkpoints at ports of entry and exit to intercept harmful substances; and
Expand the legal definition of “harmful drugs” to include emerging synthetic substances, in consultation with the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe.

The Social Services Division will lead prevention campaigns, develop demand-reduction programmes, and facilitate the creation of rehabilitation and detoxification centres nationwide. It will also introduce a monitoring system requiring schools, employers, and local authorities to adopt anti-drug awareness and intervention programmes within 90 days of the Act’s commencement.

Each province and district will host offices of the agency to decentralise services and ensure community-level engagement, while traditional leaders will help devise local prevention strategies.

The Bill further empowers the agency to employ prosecutors from the National Prosecuting Authority to handle drug-related cases, signalling a shift toward specialised prosecution of narcotics offences. It also introduces a new, stricter “standard scale of fines” and penalties for drug crimes — higher than those prescribed under existing criminal laws.

In a major development, the proposed law integrates the agency into Zimbabwe’s Money Laundering and Proceeds of Crime Act, allowing it to pursue unexplained wealth orders and seize assets linked to drug cartels.

The Bill stresses rehabilitation and social reintegration as key pillars. It obliges the agency to support affected individuals through psychosocial counselling, vocational training, and community wellness programmes aimed at helping addicts rebuild their lives.

If passed, the National Drug and Substance Abuse Control and Enforcement Agency will replace fragmented anti-drug efforts currently scattered across ministries and law enforcement agencies, creating a central authority to drive national strategy and coordination.

Parliament is expected to debate the Bill in the coming weeks amid growing concern over youth addiction to crystal meth, cough syrups, and other illicit substances that have taken root in both urban and rural communities.

National

Hwange unit 8 breaks down, deepening Zimbabwe’s power supply challenges

Published

1 week ago

October 21, 2025

VicFallsLive

BY WANDILE TSHUMA

ZESA Holdings has announced that Hwange Unit 8 has been taken off the national grid following a technical fault, a development expected to worsen Zimbabwe’s persistent electricity shortages.

In a statement released on Monday, the power utility said the unit would be out of service for ten days while restoration work is carried out.

“Hwange Unit 8 has been taken off the grid due to a technical fault. The unit will be out of service for 10 days while restoration work is carried out,” ZESA said.

The company said Hwange Unit 7 remains operational, generating 335 megawatts (MW) to support system stability, while power generation at Kariba South Power Station has been ramped up with “careful management of water allocations” to compensate for the temporary shortfall.

ZESA apologized for the inconvenience and appealed for public understanding as engineers work to restore the unit.

Zimbabwe has faced recurring electricity supply challenges over the past two decades, driven by ageing infrastructure, limited generation capacity, and low water levels at Kariba Dam. While the commissioning of Hwange Units 7 and 8 in 2023 brought some relief, frequent breakdowns have continued to disrupt supply, forcing industries and households to endure prolonged load-shedding.

The latest fault at Hwange comes at a time when power demand is surging across the country, particularly during the hot season when air conditioning and irrigation systems increase pressure on the grid.

Energy experts say the outage highlights the need for greater investment in maintenance, renewable energy, and grid modernization to stabilize Zimbabwe’s power supply in the long term.