NEW: Zimbabwe, China sign memorandum of understanding on cataract surgery

The Sunday Mail

Online Reporter

ZIMBABWE and China have signed a memorandum of understanding on cataract surgery through which 600 patients will be assisted.

The MoU is on the implementation of China’s “Bright Journey” programme at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals.

The programme will see a Chinese ophthalmologist medical team being dispatched to Zimbabwe to carry out free cataract clinical operations for 600 cataract patients and conduct on-site training and academic exchanges with Zimbabwean medical personnel.

The signing ceremony on Wednesday also saw China donating respiratory medicine and equipment to Zimbabwe.

The cataract patients will be screened and selected by Zimbabwe’s health authorities.

Minister of Health and Child Care Dr Douglas Mombeshora said: “The signing of the MoU and handover of respiratory medicine equipment will go a long way in assisting over 600 cataract patients and support the hospital’s development of pulmonary and critical care.”

China’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe Mr Zhou Ding said the agreement marks the latest step in medical and health cooperation between the two countries.

The medical equipment and consumables are valued at US$500 000.