Prominent businessman and Arundel Hospital owner Dr. Kudakwashe Tagwirei has made headlines after announcing that his medical facility will offer free treatment to those who can travel to Harare.
In a viral video, Tagwirei is heard encouraging Zimbabweans in need of medical care to find bus fare to reach Arundel Hospital, where they will receive treatment at no cost.
He emphasized the importance of helping one another, saying, “Kana ukarwara tsvaga mari yebhazi uuye kuArundel, tinokurapa mahara”.
WATCH | Arundel Hospital owner Dr Kudakwashe Tagwirei: “Kana ukarwara tsvaga mari yebhazi uuye kuArundel (Hospital), tinokurapa mahara.”
Thoughts? pic.twitter.com/7Bq9XvHxFS
— Crime Watch Zimbabwe (@crimewatchzw) April 1, 2025
Mixed Public Reactions
The announcement has sparked debate among Zimbabweans, with some commending the initiative while others questioning its sustainability and accessibility for those in rural areas.
One user, @OrdinryZimbo263, praised the move, stating, “Guys, let’s not hate for the sake of it. This is good; many people are being helped. If all wealthy individuals did this, the country would be a better place.”
Another user, @ChestaMadar, added,
“What a pleasant initiative, sir. If we can also improve existing healthcare centers so that people in remote areas can access medical help without traveling long distances, that would be even better.”
However, others expressed skepticism, questioning why similar facilities were not being established nationwide.
@focusedphase criticized the reliance on a single hospital, tweeting,
“Why not build similar facilities in Gokwe, Binga, Mutawatawa, Gwanda, and other areas? Should 14 million Zimbabweans all travel to Arundel for treatment?”
Health Sector Challenges
Zimbabwe’s healthcare system has long faced challenges, including shortages of medical supplies, underfunding, and limited access to quality care in rural areas.
While Tagwirei’s initiative has been welcomed by some, others argue that improving existing public hospitals would provide broader, long-term benefits to Zimbabweans across the country.
Authorities are yet to respond to calls for decentralized healthcare support, but the debate continues over whether private philanthropy can be a sustainable solution to Zimbabwe’s health crisis.
