A New Era in Public Health Emergency Preparedness and Response in Zimbabwe

By Isheunesu Gwasha (Programs Communications Officer)

Zimbabwe has taken a significant step forward in public health emergency preparedness with the official handover of eight state-of-the-art Public Health Emergency Operations Centres (PHEOCs) by World Vision Zimbabwe to the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC).

The event, held in Kadoma, was officiated by the Deputy Minister of Health and Child Care, Hon. Sleiman Kwidini, on behalf of Minister Dr. Douglas Mombeshora. The establishment of these centres marks a transformational shift in Zimbabwe’s ability to rapidly respond to health crises, strengthening coordination at the provincial and district levels.

For years, the nation faced delays in its preparedness and response to health emergencies, operating with only the national PHEOC, located in Harare. This meant it took weeks, or even months, to manage outbreaks, given the challenges of coordination during emergencies.

World Vision Zimbabwe identified a significant gap in health emergency preparedness and response, then collaborated with MoHCC, along with local authorities in selected districts. These included Nyanga Hospital, Matebeleland South Provincial Medical Director (PMD), Harare City, Manicaland PMD, Chiredzi District Health Executive (DHE), Mashonaland West PMD, and Kadoma City. This collaboration was part of the Strengthening Health Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Resilience (SHEPRAR) Project, supported by World Vision Germany and funded by Aktion Deutschland Hilft (ADH).

During the handover ceremony in Kadoma, Hon. Kwidini emphasized the importance of establishing Public Health Emergency Operations Centers (PHEOCs). 

"Zimbabwe faces numerous hazards, including epidemics, severe weather, chemical spills, and zoonosis. The frequency and complexity of events such as the cholera outbreaks in 2008, 2018, and 2023, Tropical Cyclone Idai in 2019, and the COVID-19 pandemic have highlighted the need to strengthen our multi-sectorial Public Health Emergency Management Systems, which led to the establishment of the PHEOCs."

The PHEOCs are equipped with interactive screens, smart television sets, furniture, smart speakers, cameras, microphones, DStv sets for media monitoring, and air conditioning units.

PHEOCs function like war rooms, serving as command and coordination hubs to respond to public health emergencies using the One Health Strategy. The eight subnational PHEOCs benefiting from the SHEPRAR Project received training in Public Health Emergency Management (PHEM) and are equipped with the necessary resources for cholera culture and antibiotic sensitivity testing.

During a Zoom meeting held at the Kadoma PHEOC, which connected the other seven PHEOCs, Hon. Kwidini emphasized the importance of resource stewardship to ensure sustainability and resilience. “We need to make sure that the equipment is used for its intended purpose. Let us care for these resources so that we can effectively respond to public health emergencies within our provinces and districts,” he said.

The PHEOCs will ensure the early detection of outbreaks. An Incident Action Plan will be developed within four hours of appointing an Incident Manager. The goal is for the response team to confirm outbreaks within seven days, notify relevant parties within one day, and mount an effective response within seven days, following the 7-1-7 approach.

Assan Golowa, the National Director of World Vision Zimbabwe, emphasised the organisation’s commitment to protecting the health and well-being of the people of Zimbabwe. “Today's gesture symbolises our collective resolve to strengthen public health systems and ensure that Zimbabwe is better prepared to respond to public health emergencies,” Golowa said.

“As we officially hand over the PHEOCs to MoHCC, I am confident that they will serve as critical hubs for public health emergency operations. I encourage all stakeholders to collaborate and ensure that these centers are utilized to their full potential.”

During the event, UNICEF Zimbabwe and the Africa CDC delivered inspiring solidarity speeches, emphasising their commitment to supporting MoHCC, local authorities, and World Vision's initiative. They focused on the importance of empowering districts and provinces to effectively prepare for and respond to public health emergencies, fostering a proactive approach to health resilience in communities.

The PHEOCs will serve as vital symbols of hope and resilience in addressing public health challenges. These centers will play a crucial role in coordinating responses to public health emergencies, ensuring efficient communication, resource allocation, and collaboration among various stakeholders. By integrating data-driven strategies and fostering community involvement, PHEOCs will empower public health officials to effectively mitigate the impacts of epidemics, natural disasters, and other public health emergencies. Their establishment reflects a commitment to preparedness and the continuous improvement of health systems, ultimately enhancing the well-being of communities.