By Fanuel Chinowaita
Bulilima, 27 October 2025 – In a bold step toward addressing drug and substance abuse while strengthening rural healthcare, a Telemedicine Booth and Virtual Hospital were officially launched in Ntunungwe, Bulilima District, on Sunday — marking a milestone in Zimbabwe’s digital health revolution.
The event attended by over 1,000 people, combined the official opening of the Ntunungwe Virtual Telemedicine Hospital and the groundbreaking ceremony of the Ntunungwe Clinic, symbolizing a convergence of technology, compassion and national resolve to fight social and health challenges.
The initiative — a partnership between NetOne, ZimSmart Villages and the Bulilima Rural District Council — is part of a growing network of digital health points being rolled out nationwide. It is the 11th telemedicine booth launched under the OneHealth banner, spearheaded by the First Lady Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa, who has championed accessible healthcare for all Zimbabweans.
Speaking as Guest of Honour, the Deputy Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services and Member of Parliament for Bulilima, Honourable Dingumuzi Phuthi, hailed the project as a timely intervention against drug abuse and a breakthrough in rural healthcare access.
“This is more than just technology; it is a lifeline for our youth,” said Honourable Phuthi. “The fight against drug abuse requires innovative solutions and this booth provides a confidential and immediate connection to professional help — breaking down the barriers of stigma and distance that often prevent people from seeking care.”
The ceremony was graced by senior government officials, including Minister of Industry and Commerce Honourable Nqobizitha Mangaliso Ndlovu, Politburo Member and Senator Honourable Richard Ndlovu and other dignitaries, reflecting strong political and institutional support for tech-driven social transformation.
Delivering a speech on behalf of NetOne Group Chief Executive Officer Engineer Raphael Mushanawani, the company’s Public Relations Manager Mr. Ernest Magadzire reaffirmed NetOne’s role as a development partner committed to transforming lives through technology.
“The Ntunungwe Virtual Telemedicine Hospital is not just a booth — it is a hospital without walls; a medical bridge between Ntunungwe and the rest of Zimbabwe,” Engineer Mushanawani’s speech read in part.
“This innovation transforms Ntunungwe into a centre of medical excellence where technology and compassion unite to save lives. It represents the true meaning of OneHealth — ensuring that technology becomes a tool of healing, connecting patients to professionals and communities to care.”
He further expressed appreciation to the First Lady for her visionary leadership and to ZimSmart Villages and ZimPost for their partnership in making the dream of inclusive healthcare a reality.
“At NetOne, we are more than a telecommunications company — we are a partner in development, a builder of dreams and a servant of the people,” said Engineer Mushanawani.
“This project demonstrates that connectivity can be turned into care, and that digital transformation can be deeply human.”
The ZimSmart Villages Director Dr. Jokwiro, emphasized the booth’s capacity to deliver remote mental health and counselling services, particularly for those affected by drug and substance abuse.
“Improving health-seeking behaviour is the first step to recovery,” he said. “This technology allows us to meet people where they are, without judgment.”
Alderman Land Ndebele, representing the Bulilima Rural District Council, expressed gratitude to all partners calling the facility “a shield for the next generation.”
“We have been pleading for interventions to save our children from drugs. Today, that help has arrived. We will protect this facility because it protects our future,” he said.
The telemedicine initiative is guided by Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), which prioritize inclusive growth and access to essential services for all citizens.
As the sun set over Ntunungwe, the community celebrated a new dawn — one where healthcare and social support are just a heartbeat away through the power of technology.