Stanbic Bank donates autoclave machine to Ingutsheni Hospital

STAFF WRITER

Stanbic Bank Zimbabwe has donated an autoclave machine worth US$20,000 to Ingutsheni Hospital in Bulawayo, reinforcing its commitment to improving healthcare standards at key public institutions across the country.

In addition to the autoclave unit, the bank— a subsidiary of the Standard Bank Group— also constructed a dedicated room to house the machine at a cost of US$15,500.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, Stanbic Bank Chairman, Muchakanakirwa Mkanganwi, said the institution was proud to support Ingutsheni Hospital, which has served Zimbabwe with distinction for over a century.

“It is fitting that this historic hospital receives an autoclave machine, which plays a crucial role in sterilising medical equipment, controlling infections, and improving overall healthcare delivery,” Mkanganwi said. “Stanbic Bank is proud to be associated with the largest psychiatric hospital in Zimbabwe, with over 700 beds, located in the City of Kings, Bulawayo. This donation forms part of our ongoing commitment to support national development priorities, in alignment with the National Health Strategy and the Government’s drive to improve access to quality healthcare.”

Mkanganwi added that the donation to Ingutsheni is part of a broader initiative to strengthen the country’s healthcare infrastructure. Similar donations have already been made to Parirenyatwa, Sally Mugabe, and Victoria Chitepo hospitals at a combined cost of US$80,000.

“This handover is not an isolated act. It is part of a broader investment in public health infrastructure. We recognise that a healthy population is foundational to national productivity, and we stand ready to continue collaborating with public institutions in pursuit of this goal,” Mkanganwi said.

He also highlighted that the initiative aligns with the values of the bank’s parent company, Standard Bank Group, which prioritises creating long-term, meaningful impact in the communities it serves.

Stanbic Bank Executive Director for Corporate and Investment Banking, Betty Murambadoro, echoed the sentiment, saying the donation was more than a material gesture—it was a message of solidarity and compassion.

“Ingutsheni is not just a hospital; it is a place of hope and healing, especially for some of the most vulnerable members of our society. We are pleased to give a helping hand to such a critical institution,” Murambadoro said.

She added that the autoclave machine will play a vital role in enhancing hygiene and infection control at the hospital—ultimately improving the quality of care.

“But beyond the donation itself, what we’re truly handing over is a message of solidarity and compassion. This gesture is rooted in Stanbic Bank’s belief that no one should be left behind, especially when it comes to healthcare,” she said.

Murambadoro also expressed satisfaction that the bank went the extra mile to ensure the machine was installed in a safe and durable environment, enhancing its effectiveness and longevity.

“We hope this machine brings not only practical support but also encouragement to all those connected to Ingutsheni—assuring them that their tireless work is seen, appreciated, and supported,” she said.

She emphasised that the donation reflects Stanbic Bank’s broader Corporate Social Investment (CSI) strategy.

“Our CSI strategy is not just a corporate checklist—it is a living expression of our purpose: Zimbabwe is our home, we drive her growth. From health and education to the environment and sports, our CSI work reaches across Zimbabwe. Today, that journey brings us here, to Bulawayo, to stand with the healthcare heroes at Ingutsheni,” said Murambadoro.

Ingutsheni Hospital Chief Medical Officer, Dr Nemache Mawere, expressed deep appreciation for the donation, saying it marks a turning point in the hospital’s transformation.

“Ingutsheni Hospital has long resembled a large rural hospital, with minimal infrastructure development to show that it is, in fact, a modern institution,” Dr Mawere said. “The arrival of this autoclave machine, and the Central Sterile Supply Department (CSSD) which we are set to open, is a major step forward. It takes us away from being seen as just a big rural hospital lacking modern infrastructure.”

He noted that the new additions will enhance the hospital’s capacity to provide safe and efficient care, in line with national healthcare objectives.