Zimbabwe Expands Cancer Treatment Services as Government Trains More Radio-Oncologists

HARARE – The Government says it is intensifying efforts to expand cancer treatment services across Zimbabwe by increasing the number of specialist radio-oncologists and decentralising access to radiotherapy equipment beyond the country's major cities.

Speaking in the Senate on Thursday, Health and Child Care Minister Douglas Mombeshora said Zimbabwe has historically faced a shortage of radio-oncology specialists, limiting the establishment of cancer treatment centres in many provinces. To address the challenge, the Government has begun training radio-oncologists locally through the University of Zimbabwe, a development expected to strengthen the country's cancer care capacity in the coming years.

Mombeshora revealed that a new radiotherapy machine has already been installed at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, while installation of another machine at Mpilo Central Hospital is approximately 85 percent complete.

"The new machine, which arrived, has already been installed at Parirenyatwa. Another one is about 85 per cent installed in Bulawayo," Mombeshora told senators.

The minister was responding to questions from Senator Robson Mavhenyengwa, who sought clarification on how disadvantaged patients, particularly those living in remote areas, would benefit from the new cancer treatment facilities, given the high cost of travelling to Harare and Bulawayo.

As part of a broader healthcare expansion programme, Mombeshora said the radiotherapy machine currently being replaced at Mpilo Central Hospital will be relocated to Gweru. The move forms part of a wider strategy to decentralise cancer treatment services and improve access for patients living outside the country's two largest cities. According to the minister, priority is being given to provinces that host medical training institutions, enabling healthcare professionals to receive practical experience while improving access to specialised treatment.

The government's long-term objective is to establish cancer treatment centres in every province, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for specialised oncology services. Mombeshora said plans are already underway to establish cancer treatment facilities in Masvingo through a Presidential health infrastructure programme.

"These machines must be found in every provincial hospital. We are also installing machines that are going to examine the types of cancer from the samples taken from people," he said.

The minister warned that cancer cases are increasing and stressed the importance of prevention through public awareness campaigns, healthier lifestyles, and the promotion of traditional foods. Health experts have repeatedly emphasised that early detection, improved screening services, and timely access to treatment remain critical in improving cancer outcomes. The expansion of radiotherapy services and the training of more radio-oncologists are expected to strengthen Zimbabwe's cancer care system while reducing pressure on existing facilities in Harare and Bulawayo.

Zimbabwe cancer treatment services