Zimbabwe has received its first batch of state-of-the-art multi-energy cancer treatment machines capable of treating all known types of cancer anywhere in the body, marking a major milestone in the country’s efforts to modernise cancer care.
The machines were received by the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, Professor Mthuli Ncube, together with the Minister of Health and Child Care, Dr Douglas Mombeshora yesterday.
The equipment will be installed at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals in Harare and Mpilo Central Hospital in Bulawayo, marking the beginning of a nationwide programme to modernise cancer treatment services.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Prof. Ncube described the arrival of the machines as a major breakthrough in the Government’s efforts to improve healthcare delivery and provide world-class medical services to Zimbabweans.
“Today marks a turning point in Zimbabwe’s healthcare sector. We have received the first batch of multi-energy cancer treatment machines capable of treating all known types of cancer anywhere in the body.
This is a significant milestone in our journey towards ensuring that quality healthcare is accessible to all citizens,” said Prof. Ncube.
He said the acquisition of the equipment was made possible through the Sugar Content Tax, which Treasury ring-fenced specifically to fund the procurement of modern medical equipment.
“The Sugar Content Tax was introduced with a clear purpose. We ring-fenced the proceeds to support investments in healthcare infrastructure, particularly in the fight against cancer, a disease that has caused untold suffering to many families across the country. Today, Zimbabweans can see the tangible results of that policy decision,” he said.
Prof. Ncube reaffirmed Government’s commitment to strengthening the health sector through continued investment in advanced medical technologies.
“We will continue directing resources towards improving healthcare facilities and acquiring modern equipment. More cancer treatment machines are expected in the coming months, enabling Provincial and General Hospitals to provide these services closer to communities,” he said.
The finance minister added that Government also intends to procure modern cancer diagnostic machines to enhance early detection and improve treatment outcomes.
“This is not the end of the journey. We are also focusing on strengthening diagnostic capabilities because early detection remains critical in the successful treatment of cancer,” said Prof. Ncube.
The arrival of the equipment is expected to reduce the burden on patients seeking specialised treatment and forms part of the Second Republic’s broader drive to deliver accessible, modern and high-quality healthcare services nationwide.
Government introduced the Sugar Content Tax as part of efforts to promote public health while generating revenue for healthcare infrastructure. The tax proceeds have been ring-fenced to finance the procurement of specialised medical equipment, including cancer diagnosis and treatment technologies.
