Key Points
- Zimbabwe records about 1,000 kidney failure cases annually, but many patients lack treatment.
- Most dialysis centers are in cities, leaving rural patients with few options.
- Early detection and better access to care can improve survival rates.
Zimbabwe faces a growing number of kidney failure cases, with about 1,000 people affected annually. Many struggle to get treatment due to poor access to medical care.
During a tour of the Cimas Haemodialysis Centre in Harare, Cimas Group Chief Executive Vuli Ndlovu warned about the worsening crisis. His speech, delivered by Medco General Manager Yvonne Sibanda, described kidney disease as a major health risk.
Out of the 1,000 yearly cases, only about 700 patients receive dialysis. Many go without treatment because of high costs and a lack of medical facilities.
“People with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney issues should get screened regularly,” he said.
Healthcare gaps put lives at risk
Most dialysis centers are in cities, leaving rural patients with few options. Many have to travel long distances for treatment, making early diagnosis nearly impossible.
“Catching kidney disease early can slow its progress and improve long-term survival,” Ndlovu said.
The tour was part of events leading up to World Kidney Day, observed on Thursday. This year’s theme, Are Your Kidneys Okay? Detect Early, and Protect Kidney Health, urges people to check their kidney function regularly.
Expanding care for kidney patients
The Cimas Haemodialysis Centre provides care for chronic and acute kidney failure patients. It also offers kidney transplant services, giving some a second chance at life.
“Our team includes an experienced nephrologist, intensive care nurses, and administrative staff,” Ndlovu said. “We also have on-site service engineers to maintain dialysis machines.”
Zimbabwe needs more dialysis centers and early screening programs. Without urgent action, many will continue to suffer without access to life-saving treatment.
