- A significant project aimed at improving the mental health and well-being of healthcare staff in Zimbabwe was launched on January 8, 2026.
- The launch event took place at Gweru Provincial Hospital in the Midlands Province.
- Professor Dingani Moyo, a Zimbabwean-based occupational physician, hosted the event.
- The initiative receives funding from NEBOSH’s social purpose fund.
The newly launched project addresses the critical need for occupational health services within Zimbabwean healthcare settings, which are currently very limited. Healthcare workers in Zimbabwe face various work-related hazards that negatively impact their physical and mental health, with occupational stress being a significant issue for this workforce.
The project intends to develop a comprehensive training strategy, enabling health professionals to deliver pre-prepared teaching packages and ‘train the trainer’ courses. This approach aims to create a cadre of mental health champions within the healthcare system, ultimately enhancing support for staff well-being.
The content, delivery, and overall impact of this project are slated for continuous evaluation. Following its successful completion, the initiative aims to serve as a model for similar programs in other district, provincial, and central hospitals across Zimbabwe, indicating a broader vision for healthcare staff support.
Timeline
- **January 8, 2026:** The launch event for the mental health and well-being project for healthcare staff takes place at Gweru Provincial Hospital.
Key Players
- **Professor Anne Harriss:** SOM Past President, attended the launch event.
- **Professor Dingani Moyo:** Zimbabwean-based occupational physician, hosted the launch event.
- **NEBOSH:** Funder of the mental health and well-being project.
- **Hospital Matron, Medical Superintendent, Provincial Medical Director:** Attended the launch event.
