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Business Reporter
STANBIC Bank Zimbabwe has purchased an assortment of non-food items (NFIs) worth over $70 000 as the financial services institution puts its shoulder to the wheel in the fight against cholera.

The bank moved to contribute to the ongoing efforts to nullify the cholera pandemic, which has taken 49 lives in the last three weeks by providing 5 000 litres of IV fluid; 5 000 x 25 litre containers, 10 000 plastic aprons, 50 000 face masks, 10 000 latex gloves, 100 pairs of gumboots and water treatment tablets.

The NFIs were handed over to the Ministry of Health and Child Care at Beatrice Infectious Diseases Hospital at the weekend.

Stanbic Bank head of marketing and communications, Palmer Mugavha, said the sourced materials were for use by healthcare workers and distribution to various households in affected areas.

“We extend our sincere condolences to all who have lost their loved ones.

“We are here as Stanbic Bank to join Government, members of the non-governmental organisations, the communities and fellow corporates in curbing the further spread of this ruthless plague,” said Mugavha.

He urged the populace to adhere to the preventive measures as guided by the Ministry of Health and Child Care and applauded Government for a swift response and co-ordinating strategic reaction towards preventing the extended impact of cholera.

The Deputy Minister of Health and Child Care, Dr John Mangwiro, said Government was committed to ensuring that there was no more loss of life adding that the donation by Stanbic Bank would go a long way in ensuring that this is achieved.

“We are so grateful that Stanbic Bank has given careful thought to their donation by giving us the most important items needed to combat cholera and especially prevent more deaths . . . we want to say thank you to Stanbic Bank,” he said.

The cholera epidemic was first reported to the Ministry of Health and Child Care on September 6, 2018 from Harare’s Glenview and Budiriro suburbs, and other areas in Harare have since reported similar cases.

To date, a cumulative 9 779 suspected cholera cases have passed through the treatment centres with Glen View reporting the majority (5 078), Budiriro (2 519) and Beatrice Infectious Hospital (2 182).

Zimbabwe last had a cholera outbreak in 2008/09, which was more devastating and prolonged than the current one.