Lupane community benefits from Health Expo

Thembelihle Mhlanga

The Lupane community recently benefitted from a successful Health Expo which offered free essential health services to local residents.

Held at the Lupane Central Church, the event organized by the Seventh Day Adventist Church (SDA) provided a range of health checks, including blood pressure monitoring, Body Mass Index (BMI) assessments, and HIV and AIDS screenings, along with mental health support.

Nkululeko Ncube, Nurse in Charge for Lupane Clinic, led the health team during the expo. He praised the collaboration between the church and healthcare professionals. “This initiative is vital for our community,” Ncube stated. “We are here to provide free health services and educate people on important health issues that affect them daily.”

The turnout for the Health Expo was impressive, with hundreds of locals taking advantage of the free services and expressing gratitude for the church’s initiative.

“I came to check my blood pressure and get information about diabetes,” said Thandiwe Moyo, a Lupane resident. “It’s great to see the church taking the lead in promoting health in our community. This is something we really need.”

In addition to the physical health services, the expo focused on mental health, an area often overlooked in rural Zimbabwe.

“Mental health is just as important as physical health,” explained Ncube. “The stigma surrounding mental health issues can prevent people from seeking help. We are here to change that narrative.”

Dingani Mugande, the Elder in Charge for Personal Ministries at Lupane Central, emphasized the importance of the event as a precursor to a larger evangelism campaign.

“This Health Expo is not just about physical well-being; it serves as a foundation for our upcoming mega evangelism campaign, Pentecost 24, which will run from September 15 to 28 at the Lupane Bus Terminus,” Mugande said. “Our aim is to heal both the body and the spirit, promoting holistic well-being within our community.”

Mugande reiterated the church’s commitment to the community, mentioning that their mission goes beyond spiritual nourishment as they aim to support the community in every aspect of life, including health.

As the Health Expo wrapped up, attendees left with not only vital health information but also a sense of community spirit fostered by the church’s outreach.