Turkish Ambassador to Zimbabwe Berna Kasnakli said Türkiye was ready to broaden collaboration with the Zimbabwean Government, particularly in healthcare.
Speaking during the inauguration of the renovation project at the neonatal unit, at Sally Mugabe hospital, which was supported by the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) and implemented with the Zimbabwe National Zakat Fund (ZIMNZAF),yesterday, Ambassador Kasnakli said, “A few private hospitals have had contacts already in Harare. Türkiye Scholarships is another tool at our disposal. We can extend scholarships in medicine, undergraduate or postgraduate students.”
She said Türkiye’s experience in health infrastructure, advanced technology and patient care could provide opportunities for further cooperation with Zimbabwe.
“As a leading country in health, from infrastructure, advanced technology and patient care, Türkiye is open to further cooperation,” she said.
She said the project was designed to improve conditions for newborn babies and their mothers at one of Zimbabwe’s busiest maternity facilities.
“This project contributes directly to the well-being of mothers and their babies. It is a humble yet tangible contribution to improve healthcare service delivery at the busiest maternity unit in Zimbabwe,” she said.
The project included the upgrading of the neonatal ward as well as refurbishment of the waiting area used by mothers spending time with their babies.
“These improvements provide a more comfortable and supportive environment, reflecting a strong commitment of Türkiye to inclusive healthcare, supporting women and children,” Kasnakli said.
The ambassador said TİKA’s interventions in Zimbabwe were guided by the country’s own development priorities, particularly the National Development Strategy.
“Zimbabwe’s priorities are our priorities with the sole aim of contributing to Zimbabwe’s development,” she said.
Looking ahead, she said Türkiye would continue implementing TİKA projects in Zimbabwe, particularly in health, women and youth empowerment and agriculture.
“By effective partnerships we want to create sound impact while supporting development. Global funding cuts had increased the need for stronger coordination among local and international stakeholders,”she added
Beyond the neonatal project, Türkiye has supported several initiatives in Zimbabwe including health, innovation, women’s empowerment, water and humanitarian assistance.
