Mpilo Central Hospital recorded the highest patient mortality rate among Zimbabwe’s major referral hospitals, with 8.4% of admitted patients dying between January and August 2024, according to official health ministry data.
The hospital admitted 18,367 patients during this period, with 1,051 deaths recorded. Parirenyatwa Hospital in Harare followed with an 8% mortality rate from 19,437 admissions.
Sally Mugabe Hospital managed the highest patient volume, handling 39,395 admissions with a 7.4% death rate. United Bulawayo Hospitals reported 5% mortality, while Chitungwiza Hospital maintained the lowest rate at 4%.
“The figures are terrible, but we are taking measures to restore the hospital to its previous better standing,” said Acting Chief Medical Officer Professor Solwayo Ngwenya.
Hospital staff members, speaking on condition of anonymity, attributed the high death rate to resource shortages and administrative problems. The statistics emerged during a Ministry of Health and Child Care review meeting held in Bulawayo from December 9-13.
Dr. Themba Bulle, a Zimbabwean physician practicing in Australia, pointed to broader systemic issues. “The rich and high-ranking government officials can afford private healthcare or seek treatment abroad, while ordinary citizens face dire conditions in public hospitals,” he said.
The mortality data highlights deepening inequalities in Zimbabwe’s healthcare system. While affluent citizens access private care or international treatment, many others struggle with limited resources at public facilities.
Public hospitals face chronic shortages of essential medicines and medical staff. Many citizens never reach hospitals due to financial barriers and inadequate emergency transport services.
Dr. Bulle advocated for universal healthcare reform. “Zimbabweans should demand a public health system that is free and accessible to all,” he said.
The Ministry of Health has not announced specific plans to address the mortality rate disparities. Mpilo’s Chief Medical Officer Dr. Dzvanga was unavailable for comment while on leave.