The article summarises an address by Vice-President (VP) Constantino Chiwenga at the 75th-anniversary celebrations of the Catholic-run St. Luke’s Mission Hospital in Ken Maur, Lupane, Matabeleland North Province, Zimbabwe.
Praise for the Mission Hospital and the Church
- VP Chiwenga hailed the 75-year journey of St. Luke’s as a “beacon of hope and healing,” a sanctuary where faith meets science, and a “remarkable milestone” showcasing a legacy of service, compassion, and commitment to healthcare.
- He noted the institution’s history as a referral hospital, which has grown to become a de facto Provincial Referral Centre serving a vast catchment area. He also highlighted the recent reconstruction of the Family and Child Health block, which was destroyed by fire in 2019, commending the Archbishop of Bulawayo for leading the effort.
- The VP recognised the Catholic Church as a strategic development partner in sectors like education, social protection, poverty alleviation, and health, and for providing moral guidance.
Challenges and Government Support
- VP Chiwenga acknowledged several challenges facing the hospital, including the need for solar system upgrades, repairs to the mortuary, and a shortage of student accommodation. He pledged that these issues would be addressed.
- He emphasised the importance of rural health facilities, education, and infrastructure for rural industrialisation, aligning with the national Vision 2030 goal of achieving an upper-middle-income society.
- He stressed that the relationship between the Church and the Government is vital, underscoring the joint commitment to a resilient, inclusive, and prosperous Zimbabwe built on unity of purpose. He also mentioned government and Church support for women empowerment programs promoting entrepreneurship and access to finance for rural women.
- The VP personally donated a cash gift to the institution.
Tackling Drug and Substance Abuse
- A significant portion of his address was dedicated to the “scourge of drug and substance abuse.”
- He issued a stern warning to the youth, imploring them to “choose knowledge over intoxication” and reject substances that “destroy health, steal destiny,” and extinguish potential, dreams, and hope.
- He also issued a strong message to drug peddlers and enablers, stating that the Government of Zimbabwe will not stand idly by but will act “decisively and lawfully” to destroy their operations. He concluded this point with the Setswana/isiNdebele phrase, “We say no to drugs-asiwafuni” (we don’t want them).
Tribute
- VP Chiwenga paid tribute to the late Dr. Hans Schales, who worked at St. Luke’s Mission Hospital for over 20 years, for his selfless service to humanity.
