Australia pledges to assist health sector
THE Australian Government yesterday pledged to assist the country’s health sector and will start by donating respiratory equipment to Harare Central Hospital today. The equipment is worth US$65 000. Harare Central Hospital has been facing a shortage of respiratory equipment, especially in its paediatric unit.
Speaking to journalists after paying a courtesy call on Health and Child Care Minister David Parirenyatwa in Harare yesterday, Australian Ambassador to Zimbabwe Ms Bronte Moules said her country was keen on assisting Zimbabwe in the field of health.
“The health sector is one area we have been working for quite some time and we will be at Harare Hospital tomorrow morning to handover some more equipment there,” she said.
“I think there is practical cooperation between the wonderful doctors and nurses of Zimbabwe and Australia. Tomorrow we are delivering some equipment to the children’s hospital.
“These are some of the equipment that will provide respiratory support for new born babies and premature babies.
“This builds on some other practical assistance being provided in terms of air conditioning, basic equipment for maternal health,” said Ambassador Moules.
Minister Parirenyatwa said Zimbabwe and Australia enjoy cordial relations, especially under the new dispensation.
“As you know Australia and Zimbabwe have a long standing relationships and we have had a lot of assistance specifically at Harare hospital at the paediatric hospital.
“Under the new dispensation, we are looking forward to have a stronger relationship with Australia,” said Dr Parirenyatwa.