Government is considering expanding private-sector participation in nursing education to increase local training capacity and strengthen the country’s healthcare workforce.
Health and Child Care Minister, Dr Douglas Mombeshora, said the expansion would be guided by the evaluation of an ongoing pilot programme at the Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa School of Nursing in Kadoma.
“The Ministry’s intention is to progressively open up private sector participation in nurse training beyond the current pilot project being undertaken at the Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa School of Nursing in Kadoma,” he said.
Mombeshora was speaking at The Avenues Clinic’s 23rd graduation ceremony, in Harare, where 38 nurses graduated after completing specialist training in Intensive Care and Operating Theatre Nursing.
The clinic has renewed its application for Government approval to introduce General Nursing Diploma training, which would broaden its contribution to nursing education.
Managing director, Sibusisiwe Ndhlovu said the institution was investing US$200,000 annually in postgraduate nursing education, alongside continued improvements in medical infrastructure, equipment and clinical training.
Principal Nursing Officer, Florence Ogwal said the clinic was also expanding its specialist programmes to address emerging healthcare needs, with Oncology and Palliative Care Nursing introduced in January 2026.
“By strengthening local capacity, we can help more patients receive care close to home, with the support of their loved ones,” she said.
The Avenues Clinic has trained 347 specialist nurses since establishing its postgraduate nursing school, comprising 185 Intensive Care Nurses and 162 Operating Theatre Nurses.
The institution also provides subsidised training opportunities for nurses employed at Government health facilities and facilitates clinical attachments for University of Zimbabwe nursing students.
Dr Mombeshora commended the clinic’s contribution to specialist nursing education, urging healthcare institutions to invest in developing skills in critical care, oncology, emergency medicine and neonatal care.
He said expanding training opportunities through public-private partnerships would help build a competent and adequately skilled health workforce capable of responding to the country’s changing healthcare needs.
The proposed expansion of private-sector participation is expected to complement existing Government training institutions and strengthen the domestic capacity to produce qualified nursing professionals.
