Staff Reporter

Government has pledged to bridge a major funding gap in the health sector following the U.S. Government’s decision to cut support for key health programmes.
Speaking at a press conference last Friday, Health and Child Care Minister Douglas Mombeshora said the country is facing a shortfall of between US$300 million and US$400 million, but efforts are underway to close the gap.

“The funding gap that has been created is huge. We are talking of between US$300 and US$400 million, and we are working toward covering that gap gradually,” Minister Mombeshora said.
He confirmed that the cuts have impacted programmes focussing on HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria. However, Government has already taken steps to ensure continuity in critical services.
“Medical drug transportation and clinical staff contracts have been reinstated,” he stated.
One of the most pressing concerns was the supply of antiretroviral therapy (ART) for people living with HIV. Minister Mombeshora assured the public that there will be no shortages in the coming months.
“We can assure everyone in Zimbabwe who is on ART that they will not miss their medication. There will be no shortages. The current ART stockpile will last until June 2025, and Government has already started procuring additional supplies to sustain treatment through to September,” he added.
While Minister Mombeshora did not provide specifics on where the Government would source the additional funds, he emphasised that efforts to secure alternative funding are already in motion.
Officials are reportedly exploring a combination of budget reallocations and other financing strategies to sustain essential health programmes.
The move comes as Zimbabwe seeks to reduce its dependence on foreign aid and strengthen domestic funding mechanisms for its healthcare system.
Government’s assurances aim to prevent panic among citizens who rely on these programmes, particularly those receiving life-saving treatment for HIV and other diseases.