As part of TB REACH project closure, a handover of TB REACH assets took place of on 4 May 2016, at Plumtree Hospital in Matebeleland South province. The ceremony was graced by the presence of the District Administrator, Provincial Medical Director among the distinguished guests.

TB REACH project was implemented by International Organization for Migration (IOM) Zimbabwe from 1 June 2014 to 31 March 2016. The aim of the project was to increase Tuberculosis(TB) control and early detection among migrants and migration affected communities in Matebeleland South Province. TB REACH assets that were handed over to the Government of Zimbabwe consisted of 2 Gene Xpert machines, 4 LED microscopes, 4 computers, 4 solar panels, scanners, printers, stationery, medical materials and reagents.

Speaking on behalf of the Ms. Lily Sanya, IOM Chief of Mission, Mr Rangarirayi Tigere expressed IOM’s gratitude to the Ministry of Health and Child Care, for the opportunity, support and guidance that IOM enjoyed from Ministry during the running of the TB REACH project.  Mr. Tigere also noted that using technology such as Gene Xpert machines that rapidly detect TB and multi drug resistant TB is key to early detection and control of TB among migrants.

In her welcome remarks, the District Administrator Ms Gandada, stated that the district gratefully welcomes the opportunity to continue using first class equipment to address TB among migrants. Speaking at the same occasion, the Provincial Medical Director, Dr Maponga indicated that the assets will go a long way in helping the Ministry of Health and Child Care to screen and detect TB in the province and country as a whole and hopes for more continued relations and partnership with IOM.

TB REACH project was made possible by the generous funding from Stop TB Partnership/ TB REACH and Global Affairs Canada.