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By Judith Matanire
Cimas Health Group CEO, Vulindlela Lester Ndlovu, emphasized the pivotal role of collaboration between the private sector and the government for the successful implementation of Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1).
Mr. Ndlovu’s remarks, delivered on Wednesday at the International Business Conference 2024 in Bulawayo as part of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) weeklong event, highlighted the necessity of robust collaboration between the private sector and the government for the effective implementation of key developmental initiatives.
Acknowledging the government’s bold strategies outlined in the NDS1 blueprint, Ndlovu highlighted the need for increased cooperation to meet its objectives. He particularly emphasized the importance of enhancing the pharmaceutical value chain to reduce reliance on imports and meet the expectations of NDS1.
Ndlovu proposed mobilizing additional funding to support local manufacturers and advocated for the establishment of a Health Investment Fund to bolster the healthcare sector. He emphasized the role of both the private and public sectors in fostering sustainable growth and improving access to medicines through initiatives such as supporting NatPharm.
“We find the pharmaceutical value chain strategies most exciting. As Cimas Health Group we intent to maximise on the whole healthcare value chain. However, zeroing in on the pharmaceutical value chain, we have seen an increase in locally manufactured medical consumables and pharmaceuticals. We are, however, cognisant that as a country we are still lagging in meeting the NDS1 expectations.”
Reflecting on this year’s ZITF theme, “Innovation: The Catalyst to Industrialisation and Trade,” Ndlovu reiterated Cimas Health Group’s commitment to innovation and announced the launch of a genomic sequencing service. Aimed at identifying individuals at risk of cancer and chronic diseases, as well as facilitating precision medicine development.
“I am excited to advise that this year, as Cimas Health Group, we are launching a genomic sequencing service. This will enable us to identify individuals who could potentially be at risk of cancer and other chronic diseases. Our sequencer will also be able to do wellness and pharmacogenetic testing. In the end it will help in the development of precision medicine,” he said.
Additionally, he unveiled a brand-new mobile clinic at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), showcasing the company’s commitment to advancing healthcare accessibility and innovation while also providing various health screenings at their Exhibition Pavilion during this year’s ZITF. The Trade Fair, which commenced with the participation of 27 countries, saw an increase in exhibitors compared to the previous year, highlighting growing international interest and participation in Zimbabwe’s trade events.
Countries participating in this year’s exhibition included Botswana, Belarus, Brazil, China, Eswatini, the European Union, France, Germany, Indonesia, Italy, Iran, Japan, Kenya, Malawi, and Mozambique, among others, showcasing a diverse range of products and services. *Nhau/Indaba*
