The vital role played by nurses in strengthening Zimbabwe’s healthcare system took centre stage yesterday as The Avenues Clinic hosted International Nurses Day 2026 commemorations attended by Deputy Minister of Health and Child Care, Honourable Sleiman Kwidini.
Held under the global theme, “Our Nurses, Our Future – Empowered Nurses Save Lives,” at the event, there were healthcare professionals, nursing leaders, students, and stakeholders to celebrate the dedication, resilience, and contribution of nurses to national healthcare delivery.
Speaking during the commemorations, Deputy Minister Kwidini applauded nurses for their unwavering commitment to patient care despite the demanding nature of their work. He reaffirmed Government’s commitment to improving nurses’ welfare, professional growth, and working conditions.
He said nurses remain the backbone of Zimbabwe’s health sector and play a critical role in safeguarding lives and supporting communities across the country.
“We respect our nurses and doctors and we want them to be happy when they are rendering care to patients,” said Kwidini.
The Deputy Minister also acknowledged the contribution of private healthcare institutions such as The Avenues Clinic in complementing Government efforts through training, specialist education, and quality healthcare services.
In her welcome remarks, The Avenues Clinic Principal Nursing Officer Florence Ogwal described nurses as the “heartbeat of healthcare delivery,” saying empowered nurses contribute significantly to improved patient outcomes and stronger health systems.
Ogwal highlighted several milestones achieved by the institution, including the successful discharge of premature babies weighing as little as 600 grams, reduced mortality rates through timely nursing interventions, and the expansion of postgraduate nursing education.
She revealed that in 2026, The Avenues Clinic Postgraduate School introduced an Oncology and Palliative Care Nursing programme to strengthen specialist training opportunities for nurses.
“Our nurses are empowered to respond quickly and decisively because lives depend on it,” she said.
She also praised partnerships between the clinic, the University of Zimbabwe, Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, Sally Mugabe Central Hospital, and Island Hospice in strengthening practical training for postgraduate nursing students.
Meanwhile, representatives from the Nurses Council of Zimbabwe urged nurses to uphold professionalism, ethical conduct, and discipline while embracing continuous learning in a rapidly evolving healthcare environment.
The council also raised concern over mental health challenges and substance abuse affecting communities and healthcare professionals, warning that drug abuse compromises patient safety and damages public trust in the profession.
There was a renewed call for greater investment in nursing education, leadership development, staff wellness, and safe working environments to ensure nurses continue delivering compassionate and quality healthcare services.
After the official event accompanied by the clinic’s general manager Sibusisiwe Ndhlovu led the deputy minister and other officials on a tour of their facility.
