Cimas Health Group has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Zimbabwe’s healthcare system through public-private partnerships, following its renewed support for the Egypt–Zimbabwe Paediatric Cardiac Surgery Mission at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals.
Dubbed Open Heart Camp 2, the mission facilitated life-saving heart operations for 10 children between the ages of six months and 10 years, all of whom were living with congenital heart defects. The surgeries, offered free of charge, were performed by a joint team of Egyptian and Zimbabwean cardiothoracic surgeons.
Cimas was among the lead local sponsors of the initiative, partnering with the Ministry of Health and Child Care, The Avenues Clinic, NOIC, and other international collaborators. This marks the second consecutive year the health group has supported the programme, having also participated in the inaugural camp in November 2024.
Cimas Health Group CEO Mr. Vuli Ndlovu said the organisation’s involvement reflects its wider vision of promoting health equity across all sectors of society.
“Having supported the first Open Heart Surgical Camp and witnessed its impact, we were inspired to return,” said Mr. Ndlovu. “It speaks to our purpose of building healthier communities, not just in the private sector but across the nation.”
Mr. Ndlovu added that the initiative plays a dual role — saving lives now while also building the capacity of Zimbabwe’s paediatric cardiac care.
“This is about long-term sustainability. Paediatric cardiac surgery remains an underdeveloped field in our region, and by working together, we’re strengthening Zimbabwe’s healthcare system for the future,” he said.
Despite prevailing economic challenges, Cimas says it remains committed to supporting healthcare access, especially for vulnerable and underserved populations.
“We’re not driven solely by profit,” said Mr. Ndlovu. “At Cimas, our responsibility is to help save lives.”
The initiative drew praise from government officials, including Deputy Minister of Health and Child Care Honourable Sleiman Kwidini, who commended the private sector for stepping up to support the public good.
“To NOIC, The Avenues Clinic, and Cimas — your involvement goes beyond surgeries. You’re investing in futures, in hope, and in the broader vision of a healthier Zimbabwe,” said Kwidini. “This is aligned with His Excellency President Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030, which places healthcare at the centre of our national development.”
An estimated 4,500 children are born with congenital heart disease each year in Zimbabwe. The continued success of Open Heart Camp highlights the urgent need — and the potential — for cross-sector collaboration in closing the treatment gap.
Cimas’ renewed support for this life-saving programme underscores the powerful role the private sector can play in shaping a healthier, more inclusive future for Zimbabwe.
