Epworth North legislator, Zivai Mhetu has warned of an unfolding health crisis in his constituency after the abrupt suspension of U.S. aid programs, which has led to staff shortages at local clinics.
Mhetu, visited health centers in the constituency on January 5, 2025, to assess the impact of the aid freeze.
His findings paint a worrying picture of overwhelmed medical staff and uncertainty over future healthcare provisions.
During his tour of Epworth Poly Clinic and Overspill Clinic, Mhetu confirmed that the supply of antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) remains stable for now, with the National Pharmaceutical Company (Natpharm) continuing to distribute medication to the 22,000 residents on HIV treatment.
However, a full audit of ARV stockpiles is pending. He also noted that condoms, a crucial part of HIV prevention efforts, are in stock for the next four months.
But beyond medication, staffing shortages are crippling service delivery at local clinics.
Mhetu revealed that aid-funded organizations, including Zimtech and the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), recently withdrew critical personnel, leaving gaps that are yet to be filled.
At Epworth Poly Clinic alone, six nurses and five primary counselors have left.
Overspill Clinic has lost five nurses and four counselors, while Epworth Mission Clinic has seen a reduction of one nurse and two counselors.
The remaining skeletal staff are struggling to cope with patient demand, prompting the District Medical Officer to plead for government intervention.
Mhetu vowed to push for immediate action, including lobbying the government to deploy temporary (LOCUM) staff to fill the vacancies.
He also pledged to engage donor agencies and well-wishers to secure additional medical supplies.
In a direct appeal to Washington, Mhetu called on the U.S. government to reconsider its decision, arguing that the sudden cut in aid jeopardizes lives.
He criticized the lack of prior notice, suggesting a 24-month transition period would have allowed Zimbabwe to make contingency plans.
“The abrupt stall of aid does not only pose a risk to beneficiaries but is also a violation of legitimate expectation,” Mhetu said.
He added “The government of Zimbabwe passed its budget in December 2024, and funds to cover this gap may require a supplementary budget, which may not be possible since the citizens are already overly taxed.”
The aid freeze is part of US President Donald Trump’s foreign policy which he said was depriving US citizens.
The move has left many Zimbabwean healthcare programs in limbo, particularly in low-income communities like Epworth, where foreign aid has played a vital role in supporting HIV treatment and prevention efforts.
Mhetu reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that Epworth North residents continue to receive quality healthcare, but the road ahead remains uncertain.
The country’s healthcare system has long relied on international donors, with organizations like PEPFAR playing a critical role in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
The sudden halt of U.S. funding threatens to undo years of progress, particularly in high-density suburbs where healthcare infrastructure is already under strain.
Local health officials warn that without immediate intervention, the staff shortages could worsen, leading to longer wait times and compromised patient care.
