STANBIC Bank Zimbabwe has stepped in to support the country’s mental health sector by donating a high-capacity autoclave machine to Ingutsheni Central Hospital in Bulawayo, a move set to strengthen infection control and medical safety at the institution.
The modern sterilisation unit, the autoclave, unveiled during a commissioning ceremony attended by senior health officials and Stanbic Bank executives, is expected to improve hygiene and operational efficiency in the hospital’s daily procedures.
Being a referral point for mental health patients across the country, Ingutsheni Hospital is Zimbabwe’s oldest psychiatric institution and continues to play a critical role in mental healthcare.
However, it faces significant challenges, including ageing infrastructure and deteriorating facilities, which affect service delivery and patient care.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, the hospital’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr Nemache Mawere said the autoclave will go a long way in reducing the risk of infection among patients and healthcare workers.
“Ingutsheni Hospital has always resembled a large rural hospital, with minimal infrastructure development to reflect that it is a modern facility. The arrival of this autoclave machine, along with the soon-to-be-opened CSSD department, marks a major milestone in shifting us away from that perception. We intend to open a gentle care unit, and for that, we need sterilised instruments. This facility was desperately needed,” Dr Mawere said.
Stanbic Bank Chairperson, Ms Mucha Mukangwani said the donation forms part of the bank’s commitment to national development and public health.
“We are here to officially hand over this autoclave machine to Ingutsheni Hospital, an institution that has served Zimbabwe with dedication since 1908. The autoclave will significantly enhance infection and germ control through effective sterilisation. We are proud to support the largest psychiatric hospital in Zimbabwe, with over 700 beds, located in the City of Kings and Queens, Bulawayo.
“This donation aligns with our commitment to supporting national development priorities and complements the Government’s efforts to improve access to quality healthcare. Similar initiatives have benefited Parirenyatwa, Sally Mugabe, and Victoria Chitepo hospitals, at a combined cost of US$80,000,” said Ms Mukangwani.
Ingutsheni Central Hospital Executive Director, Betty Murambadoro, emphasised the importance of private sector support in enhancing public healthcare infrastructure.
“We believe this autoclave will make a vital contribution to hygiene and infection control. It’s not about the cost of the machine, it’s about making a meaningful difference. This is a gesture of solidarity, showing that Stanbic Bank understands our challenges and has extended a helping hand. We hope this machine brings practical support and renewed encouragement. It is also a sign that the work being done by Stanbic Bank is seen and appreciated,” she said.
The hospital is now better positioned to handle sterilisation demands with efficiency and safety.
