Staff Writer
Two corporate giants, TM Pick n Pay and CABS, donated a total of US$150,000 worth of cancer medicines to Mpilo Hospital, underscoring the collective effort in the fight against cancer in Zimbabwe.
TM Pick n Pay contributed US$100,000, while CABS provided an additional US$50,000, joining forces to make a significant and lasting impact on the lives of those affected by cancer.
This donation was made possible by the funds raised during the Pink Drive and Blue November cancer campaigns.
These campaigns raised awareness and encouraged shoppers to contribute to the support of cancer patients by purchasing pink and blue merchandise.
Additionally, for every swipe made on a CABS Point of Sale (POS) machine in TM Pick n Pay stores nationwide during the campaign, CABS donated towards the fight against cancer.
Mpilo Hospital, Zimbabwe’s second largest public hospital, serves as a key referral centre in the country’s healthcare system, providing essential services to those affected by cancer. It is home to the Mpilo Central Hospital’s radiotherapy unit, one of only two public medical facilities in Zimbabwe that treat cancer patients.
Recent statistics indicate that cancer remains one of the foremost health concerns in the nation, underscoring the critical importance of timely and accessible treatment for those affected.
The hospital’s comprehensive approach not only addresses immediate medical needs but also plays a vital role in the broader fight against cancer in Zimbabwe.
Mehluli Mpofu, Managing Director of CABS, emphasised the importance of this donation.
“Statistics show that cancer remains one of the leading health concerns in our country, and it was imperative that we came together to address this urgent need. By providing these resources, we not only addressed immediate medical needs but also fostered a culture of awareness and support around men’s health issues,” he said.
Mpofu further highlighted CABS’s broader commitment to social responsibility, saying, “CABS remains committed to leveraging its resources and influence to champion causes that improve the lives of individuals and uplift our society.”.
In line with this commitment, the Chief Finance Officer for TM Pick n Pay, Gamuchirai Nyamuzinga, emphasised their dedication to community well-being by saying that their efforts, exemplified by the Pink and Blue Month Campaign, reflect their belief that “doing good is good business.”
“This campaign, which featured the sale of pink cupcakes for Breast Cancer Awareness in October and blue cupcakes for Testicular Cancer in November, not only fostered community spirit but also raised essential funds for chemotherapy medications, enabling us to support local hospitals like Mpilo,” he added.
Speaking at the handover, on behalf of Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Judith Ncube, Director Nhoko commended TM Pick n Pay and CABS for their commitment to fostering a spirit of togetherness and raising awareness about the importance of early detection and treatment of breast and testicular cancer.
She stated, “This collaborative initiative exemplifies the power of partnership, showcasing what can be accomplished when organisations, businesses, and the community join forces for a shared goal. The significance of this donation resonates deeply, underscoring the transformative potential that arises when partnerships are forged in pursuit of a greater good.”
Nhoko emphasised that, “The fight against cancer is continuous and requires vigilance in raising awareness, supporting research, and advocating for better services. Together, through unified action, we can forge a future where affordable treatment options are accessible to all.”
Among the guests were medical practitioners, members of the community. CABS and TM Pick n Pay representatives illustrated a shared commitment to enhancing healthcare access for cancer patients in Zimbabwe.
