The Ministry of Health and Child Care is transforming Zimbabwe’s blood supply system, prioritizing accessibility and affordability, especially in public hospitals. Dr. Aspect Maunganidze, Permanent Secretary of Health and Child Care, emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring no life is lost due to unaffordable blood.

Recurring shortages, driven by seasonal declines in donations and logistical hurdles, have affected the system. To address this, the government is working on structural reforms to improve governance and financing. These reforms include intensifying public awareness and mobile donation campaigns, reviewing the National Blood Service Zimbabwe’s (NBSZ) operating model for transparency and affordability, strengthening subsidy mechanisms, and exploring public-private partnerships and donor support.

In public hospitals, blood is provided free of charge through a government-funded coupon system, covering the estimated US$250 cost per pint. This initiative aims to reduce the financial burden on patients and ensure timely access to life-saving transfusions.

The government’s efforts also focus on enhancing the overall efficiency of the blood supply chain, from collection and testing to distribution and transfusion. By improving governance, financing, and logistics, Zimbabwe is working towards a more sustainable and equitable blood supply system that prioritizes the needs of its citizens.

These reforms are expected to have a significant impact on healthcare outcomes in Zimbabwe, particularly for vulnerable populations who rely on public healthcare services. By ensuring access to safe and affordable blood, the government is taking crucial steps towards achieving universal health coverage and protecting the lives of its citizens. end//..