...as ZiG 248.9 million raised for cancer equipment procurement
Staff Reporter
Government's sugar tax is already yielding significant returns, with ZiG248.9 million having been collected to date and earmarked for the procurement of cancer treatment and diagnostic equipment.
The funds, gathered through the special sugar content tax on beverages, are set to bolster the country’s health sector, particularly in the fight against cancer.
Speaking in Parliament last Friday, Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion Minister, Professor Mthuli Ncube, announced that part of the revenue from the sugar tax would be used to procure essential cancer machines and drugs.
He highlighted that his ministry was working closely with the Ministry of Health and Child Care to expedite the procurement process.
“Special tax on beverages' sugar content for the first quarter amounted to ZIG7.9 million, and cumulative collections to date have reached ZIG248.9 million, equivalent to approximately US$18 million. We are working speedily with the Ministry of Health and Child Care to ensure that these machines and drugs are procured as soon as possible,” said Professor Ncube.
Health experts have welcomed the development, praising the sugar tax as a crucial step in addressing the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cancer.
Dr. Sandra Mutami, an oncologist based in Harare, applauded the Government’s decision, stating that the funds would significantly improve cancer treatment in the country.
“The cancer burden is growing, and lack of equipment has been a major challenge. This funding is a positive move towards ensuring early diagnosis and better treatment options for patients,” said Dr. Mutami.
Echoing these sentiments, public health specialist Dr. Brighton Ndlovu noted that the sugar tax could have far-reaching benefits for Zimbabwe's healthcare system.
“Not only will this help in fighting cancer, but it also sends a strong message on the need for healthier lifestyles. Investing these funds in cancer care is the right direction,” he commented.
Zimbabwe joins other nations like South Africa in implementing a sugar tax as part of broader efforts to tackle NCDs.
South Africa introduced sugar tax known as the Health Promotion Levy, in 2018 as a public health measure.
When Professor Ncube introduced Zimbabwe’s sugar tax last year, he emphasised the growing risks associated with sugary beverages, citing their role in increasing the prevalence of diseases like cancer, diabetes, and hypertension.
