_{^{By Vivian Mugarisi}}

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe - For many Zimbabweans, access to affordable surgical care remains a distant dream. Simple surgical procedures like hernia repair, tonsillectomy and benign tumor excision can become insurmountable obstacles due to exorbitant costs and limited access to specialized surgeons.

The introduction of free surgical camps in January this year has been a beacon of hope, offering positive life-changing procedures to those in need. The surgical camp, led by the Ministry of Health and Child Care with support from the World Health Organization, travels to different locations, setting up temporary operating theaters and transforming local hospitals into functional surgical units. The first one was at Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital in Mutare, Manicaland Province followed by one at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital in Harare. These camps contributed to building the capacity of health facilities which hosted them, in addition to treating the patients. For the third and final outreach of the year, Victoria Falls District Hospital, Matabeleland North Province, hosted this great initiative.

The third camp carried out from 10-16 December 2023, brought together a team of skilled surgeons, nurses, and support staff, who volunteered their time and expertise to provide free surgeries to underserved communities across Zimbabwe. 150 people benefitted from the outreach.

For many patients, the camps offer a chance at a new lease on life. Take 27-year-old Tichakunda. A hernia had troubled him for years, causing immense pain and restricting his ability to work. Tich, as he likes to be called, was unable to afford the surgery, living in constant fear of his condition worsening.

“The quotations we had received were prohibitive and an option to go to Zambia was also expensive after factoring in transport and accommodation costs,” he shares.

Like Tich, 12-year-old Bwami had suffered from constant tonsil infections, leading to sleep disturbances and affecting her academic performance.

Thanks to the camp, Bwami underwent a tonsillectomy, allowing her to finally experience a good night's sleep and focus on her studies. Her mother, Deliwe, overcome with relief, shared, "This surgery is more than just a medical intervention; it's a chance for my daughter to thrive."

The impact of the camp extends far beyond just physical healing. It empowers individuals to lead healthier and more fulfilling lives. For many patients, the surgery also addresses social and psychological burdens shouldered for years.

For Mkande, the growing mass on his neck became a constant burden that choked the joy from everyday activities for almost a decade. Sleep offered no respite, and the discomfort was a persistent companion in the darkness. The surgery was therefore “an early Christmas best gift.”

The surgical camp was not only providing relief to patients that came specifically for hernia, tonsillitis and benign tumors surgeries. Other individuals coming through and in need of emergency surgical interventions were being attended to.

Dr. Fungai Musimani, Hwange District Medical Officer, sees the medical camp as a strategic investment in the hospital's future, noting that with additional training, “minor surgeries can be offered locally, contributing to the government's decentralization goals.”

The success of the camp lies in the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders. The government, private donors, medical professionals, and local communities. Thanks to the $633,975 commitment from the Government of Japan, over 456 individuals have received critical care to date. This impactful initiative goes beyond immediate services; donated equipment ensures continuity, while training empowers local surgeons, bringing vital surgical care closer to remote communities.

"It's inspiring to witness the power of teamwork and collective action," expressed Dr. Precious Mutambanengwe, a pediatric surgeon who was part of the camp. "Seeing the smiles on our patients' faces after successful surgeries is the ultimate reward."

The integrated and free surgical camp serves as a powerful symbol of hope and resilience in Zimbabwe. As the camp continues its journey across the country, it leaves behind a trail of positive change, a reminder that even in the face of adversity, collaboration and compassion can offer a brighter future.

“This camp embodies our commitment to ensuring equitable access to essential healthcare services for all, especially those in underserved communities,” stated Dr Thenjiwe Sisimayi, WHO Technical Officer. “This is a concrete example of how WHO, in collaboration with other partners, is working towards achieving universal health coverage and ensuring that no one is left behind.”