By Edward Makuzva
Harare, Zimbabwe – In a significant milestone in the country’s fight against infectious diseases, the Infection Control Association of Zimbabwe (ICAZ) has launched a state-of-the-art hub aimed at strengthening infection prevention and control capacities.
“Today is the day we launch Southern Africa region Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Hub which is an important hub for making sure that Southern African countries do have one infection control associations.
“There are also trainings and capacitating health workers in their countries interms of prevention and control that’s our main thrust.
“Today, we take a bold step towards protecting the health and well-being of Zimbabweans,” said Dr Celestino Dhege, ICAZ President.
The ICAZ President highlighted that the hub will offer comprehensive training programs for healthcare professionals, focusing on infection control, antimicrobial stewardship, and patient safety.
Dr Dhege added that the ICAZ Hub will equip healthcare professionals with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to prevent and control infections, ultimately saving lives.
The veteran doctor reaveled that the ICAZ is currently the center where the Hub is being hosted which is an honor to our country.
The ICAZ Hub, unveiled recently in the capital at a ceremony attended by healthcare professionals, government officials, and international partners, marks a major leap forward in Zimbabwe’s efforts to combat infectious diseases. The hub will serve as a center of excellence for infection control training, research, and policy development.
Functions of the Hub are as follows:
- Research and Development: The hub will conduct research on infection control practices, identifying effective strategies and informing policy decisions.
2.Policy and Advocacy: ICAZ will work closely with government and stakeholders to develop and implement effective infection control policies.
3.Resource Center: The hub will provide access to infection control guidelines, protocols, and resources.
Dr Dhege highlighted that the ICAZ Hub is a beacon of hope in the fight against infectious diseases, and its impact will be felt across the country, improving the lives of Zimbabweans for generations to come.
“As Zimbabwe takes this significant step forward in infection control, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and communities are urged to join forces in promoting a culture of safety and quality care.
“The ICAZ Hub demonstrates Zimbabwe’s commitment to prioritizing healthcare quality and patient safety.
- “This hu4b will enhance our capacity to respond to infectious disease outbreaks and improve health outcomes”, Dr Dhege explained.
Speaking at the same occasion, director Nursing Services Nyaradzai Chiwara said the objective the ICAZ Hub is to provide comprehensive training programs for healthcare professionals on IPC, antimicrobial stewardship, and patient safety.
She added that it also conduct research on IPC practices and identify effective strategies for Zimbabwean healthcare settings as well as develop and disseminate IPC guidelines, protocols, and resources.
“It foster partnerships and collaborations with government, international organizations, and local stakeholders. Advocate for policy changes and support the development of effective IPC policies”, said Chiwara.
Chiwara highlighted that the main thrust of this hub is to establish a resource center for IPC information, guidelines, and best practices so that we support the development of IPC standards and accreditation processes.
The ICAZ Hub is a result of collaborative efforts between ICAZ, the Ministry of Health and Child Care, international organizations, and local partners.