Link to Article: Young Musician’s Death Exposes Zimbabwe’s Collapsing Health System
Garikai Mapanzure, otherwise known from his stage name Garry, was a rising Afropop musician. The 25 year old’s death was blamed on poor medical equipment by his family. In mid October Mapanzure sustained injuries from a very serious accident leading him to need immediate medical attention. There has been many Zimbabweans killed as a result of ambulance shortages and a general lack of medicine. During a funeral speech Mapanzure’s sister, Kudzai Mapanzure-Chikwanha, had harsh words to say toward the medical system saying, “He held on for 12 hours, but there was nothing in Masvingo.” During this excruciating 12 hour period the family of Mapanzure was being told that they didn’t have access to a CT scan that would be used to access the injuries in his body.With the lack of ambulance access there was no way to transfer him to a facility that had the equipment to treat him. The accident that caused the injuries was not disclosed in the article, I imagine it was something that would unfortunately leave his family traumatized.
Among the harsh words stated by Chikwanha there was also a plead for change. “Just one scan could have saved Garry.” she said. The Declaration of April 2001 states that at least 15 percent of total budget for the nation is to be used in the health sector. The collapse of the health unit in Zimbabwe can be attributed to this quota not being met. Johannes Marisa, president of the Medical and Dental Private Health Practitioners Association of Zimbabwe describes it as, “A house that is held on five pillars instead of the required six.” The lack of focus set on health and wellbeing has an absolute cause for concern for the people of Zimbabwe. Steps need to be taken to rebuild and integrate a new stronger healthcare system. It starts with proper funding. Given the time and money there should be a goal set in place for big improvements within the next couple of years. Not only will this be beneficial for Zimbabwe but it could also set a new positive president for neighboring states to adopt.
The possibility of outside intervention could have a high likelihood of occurrence in this particular situation. The usage of NGOs could prove highly beneficial in the event that the governing officials tasked with the issue wouldn’t be able to complete the task to its fullest. Bridge of Life is a non profit that works to provide strengthened healthcare worldwide. Putting in place sustainable programs to work towards a future of well recognized healthcare.