SAMA speaks out on Zimbabwe's collapsing health system

The association has previously commented on the ongoing cholera crisis and its potential to overwhelm the overstretched healthcare system in Zimbabwe. The cholera epidemic is driven by social issues beyond healthcare, such as the contamination of piped water, and water in rivers and dams. This undoubtedly is compounded by the chronic economic crisis where thousands of skilled Zimbabweans have been forced to go elsewhere for their livelihoods.

SAMA also says that the blame for the collapse rests on the Zimbabwean government as it appears to be unable to focus on the needs of its people or reach a political settlement. The association says the lack of basic social services such as a functioning sewerage system, safe drinking water and food is resulting in untold suffering to the people of Zimbabwe.

SAMA says it also remains concerned that the widespread shortage of both health personnel and pharmaceutical products is causing difficulties, including the non-availability of treatment for people living with HIV/AIDS. This potentially could lead to increased mortality in Zimbabwe, and the spread of drug-resistant HIV strains in the SADC region. Since the burden of the pandemic is borne by sub-Saharan Africa, this can have the potential of upsetting the global effort against HIV and AIDS.

It has applauded the efforts of international agencies such as UNICEF as well as other multilateral agencies and NGO's, that have provided material assistance including safe drinking water and health education, to fight the cholera epidemic and is calling on South African health professionals to volunteer and join relief efforts in Zimbabwe. Simultaneously, the association is considering more tangible means of supporting these efforts.

“We call upon the conscience of policy makers and leaders in Zimbabwe to show compassion for its population and facilitate all efforts, also by the international community, to relieve the health and social welfare crisis gripping that country” says the association and has asked South African Government to assist in this humanitarian crisis by providing additional resources.

“We also call on our Government to take the lead in rallying regional Governments in a combined social assistance program to relieve the suffering,” says SAMA.