WCOZ and Ministry of Health collaborate on breast cancer awareness in Binga

Ibin Munsaka

Binga, Zimbabwe – In a significant effort to combat the knowledge gap surrounding cancer in rural areas, the Women Coalition of Zimbabwe (WCoZ) recently launched an educational initiative for women in Binga.

The district chapter chairperson, Mrs. Plaxidia Muleya, of the Women Coalition of Zimbabwe (WCoZ), has partnered with the Ministry of Health and Child Care to provide crucial information about cancer throughout October, recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

October is designated as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, where women are encouraged to take preventative measures and foster a supportive environment for those affected by cancer. To further this cause, WCoZ, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health conducted a training in Kaani Ward 24, Binga District, attended by personnel from the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprise Development (MWACSMED).

“I have realized that most women in rural areas have limited knowledge about cancer and its various types,” Mrs. Muleya explained during the awareness training. “That is why I made arrangements with Binga District Hospital to teach us once a week for the entire cancer month.” This collaboration aims to enhance awareness and understanding of cancer among women in the community.

Pedzisai Munenge, a participant in the training, also appreciated the breast cancer awareness initiative and inquired how this program could reach other rural folks, especially women, so they could benefit and gain a better understanding of how cancer is checked and the symptoms that accompany it. “Many women in Zimbabwe are dying due to a lack of cancer-related knowledge and fail to undergo necessary breast check-ups,” Ms. Munenge said.

Participants expressed gratitude for the training, with Evelita Mbonambi stating, “As women, we learned a lot about breast cancer. We had limited knowledge, but from this training, I feel empowered and can teach other women in our communities.” In response to the informative session, attendees requested further training on cervical cancer, which was scheduled for October 18, 2024, but was postponed to a later date due to a scheduling conflict with another function held at Binga Primary School.

Another participant, Unity Mudenda, appealed for the government or donors working with the Ministry of Health to consider procuring more cancer machines to improve efficiency in conducting check-ups and treating cancer in women In Binga District . She also thanked the Ministry of Health for rolling out breast cancer awareness campaigns in the district.

Mr. Lloyd Chikwiramakomo, the Community Development Officer from the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprise Development, also appreciated the rollout of the breast cancer awareness training, noting that it will benefit more women in Binga District. He encouraged women to create social media groups, such as WhatsApp platforms, to share information with those who did not attend the awareness training.

During the training, District Nursing Officer (DNO) Mrs. Rona Mudimba, highlighted the importance of breast self-examination (BSE) and taught the women how to perform it at home. She provided guidance on what to look for, including lumps, changes in breast texture, and unusual discharge. The session also covered the effects of breast cancer on breastfeeding mothers and their babies. Mrs. Mudimba explained that breast cancer can impact milk production and quality, potentially leading to reduced milk supply and infections. Babies may also face risks if the treatment affects the mother’s milk quality, impacting nutrition and emotional well-being.

This initiative by WCoZ not only aims to educate but also fosters community solidarity in the fight against cancer. It highlights the critical importance of awareness and prevention in Zimbabwe, particularly in underserved rural areas. Empowering women with knowledge is a vital step toward improving health outcomes and building a supportive community for those affected by cancer.