Thorngrove Infectious Diseases Hospital in Bulawayo has received a donation of 20 hospital beds from the Ezra Sibanda and Friends Initiative to assist the hospital`s preparedness to handle Covid-19 cases.
Currently, the hospital, which has been designated as an isolation centre for coronavirus patients is undergoing major renovations.
Sibambene Rise and Shine organisation also donated 500 face masks meant for the city`s health workers.
Speaking at the donation handover on Thursday, one of the representatives of the Initiative, Desmond Ntini said they hope the donation will go a long way in preparing the hospital’s preparedness.
Mpilo Hospital Clinical Director, Dr Solwayo Ngwenya, who attended the event said there is a need to urgently open Thorngrove hospital to accommodate patients as they do not have anywhere to go at the moment.
“The coronavirus is rapidly spreading as you can see we are reckless trying to deal with it and I will urge the Mayor, your worship, may we open Thorngrove as of yesterday, the patients need somewhere to go they don’t have anywhere to go because now Thorngrove is capacitated to look after the patients,” said Dr Ngwenya.
Receiving the donations, Bulawayo Mayor, Councillor Solomon Mguni, expressed gratitude to the donors
“I am pleased to be receiving the donation of 20 beds that will help reduce the impact of Covid-19 in Bulawayo and make Thorngrove Hospital ready for admission for the Covid-19 patients,” said Mayor Mguni.
“The donation by Ezra Sibanda Initiative and friends will go a long way in our provision of health infrastructure and care.”
The Mayor urged the public to continue practising social distancing and where possible to stay at home.
“There are many socio-economic issues that make it difficult for people to stay at home but our appeal as a City is that where possible, let us continue to stay at home,” he urged.
He said it is important for people to remain vigilant and compliant with Covid-19 protocols.
“It is unfortunate that the nation woke up to an increase in the number of Covid-19 cases and this means there is no time to through caution to the wind. While Bulawayo has only three new cases, it is an indication that we have active local transmission and we should continue to practice social distancing, washing of hands, and avoid unnecessary travelling, let us remain vigilant and compliant to Covid-19 protocols,” said Mayor Mguni.
