A new chapter in rural healthcare has opened in Bulilima following the launch of a NetOne Telemedicine booth, a cutting-edge digital health facility designed to improve medical access for communities that have long struggled with distance and doctor shortages.
The initiative, part of NetOne’s OneHealth programme, aims to bridge the healthcare gap between urban hospitals and remote villages by providing real-time consultations with medical specialists through digital platforms.
Health practitioners hailed the development as a major breakthrough for primary healthcare in rural Zimbabwe, particularly for chronic illness management, maternal health, and emergency response.
Local nurse-in-charge Sibongile Ncube described the booth as “a lifeline” for patients who previously had to travel over 100 kilometres to Plumtree or Bulawayo for basic medical reviews.
“Now, a patient can walk in, get their vitals checked, and speak to a doctor in Harare or Bulawayo through the telemedicine system. This saves time, cost, and in some cases, lives,” she said.
The facility is equipped with digital diagnostic tools including blood pressure monitors, glucose meters, thermometers, and video-enabled consultation units. These are linked to a national network of healthcare professionals who can provide immediate advice, prescriptions, and referrals.
Speaking at the launch, Deputy ICT Minister Honourable Dingumuzi Phuthi highlighted the health impact of the innovation, noting that technology is now becoming a frontline tool in achieving universal health coverage.
“Telemedicine brings equality to healthcare access,” he said. “A villager in Bulilima now has the same opportunity to consult a specialist as someone living in Harare.”
Dr. Jokwiro, founder of ZimSmart Village, which partnered with NetOne on the project, said the booth will also play a preventive role by encouraging regular health monitoring and early disease detection.
“We want communities to move from crisis care to wellness care. Telemedicine empowers people to take control of their health before conditions become critical,” he explained.
Community leaders expressed gratitude, emphasising how the project supports the broader goals of Vision 2030 and National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), both of which prioritise access to quality healthcare for all citizens.
Residents, especially the elderly and pregnant women, were visibly excited during the unveiling ceremony. Many shared stories of missed hospital appointments due to poor transport links — a challenge the telemedicine booth now aims to eliminate.
As part of the rollout plan, NetOne has pledged to continue expanding telehealth infrastructure across rural districts, ensuring that healthcare delivery keeps pace with digital transformation.
The Bulilima Telemedicine Booth stands as a beacon of innovation-driven public health, marking a decisive step toward a healthier, more connected Zimbabwe.
