The government is pursuing a raft of legislative reforms to medicines regulation, family planning and the advertising of health services to reshape how healthcare providers operate.

Health and Child Care minister, Douglas Mombeshora, said amendments to the Medicines and Allied Substances Control Act, the National Family Planning Council Act and regulations governing the advertising of health services were under consideration.

He said the proposed changes were intended to strengthen the regulatory environment governing the health sector and ensure that legislation kept pace with the country’s healthcare needs.

“These reforms are intended to create a modern, responsive and equitable health sector that protects the public interest while supporting innovation and responsible private sector participation,” he said.

Mombeshora said collaboration in the health sector must be anchored on national priorities, transparency and equity, warning against approaches that prioritise narrow interests over the welfare of citizens.

“Health is a public good and said policy decisions should be guided by the protection of life, human dignity and equitable access to quality healthcare,” he added.

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The minister also stressed that health outcomes could not be improved through medical interventions alone, highlighting the importance of factors such as access to clean water and sanitation.

“Zimbabwe has a strong foundation from which to build a sustainable health system but requires disciplined implementation of policies and collective ownership among stakeholders.

“What is required now is disciplined implementation, collective ownership and unwavering commitment,” Mombeshora added.

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