On March 13, the world will commemorate World Kidney Day, an annual event dedicated to raising awareness about kidney health and reducing the impact of kidney diseases. This year’s theme, Are Your Kidneys OK? emphasises the importance of preventive care, early detection and lifestyle choices that support kidney health. The day also serves as a platform to educate the public on risk factors and provide guidance on managing the kidney disease for those affected.
NewsDay (ND) spoke to Cimas Health Group chief executive officer, Vuli Ndlovu (VN), on the growing burden of the kidney disease and the critical role of early diagnosis and treatment. Find excerpts below:
ND: When did Cimas Health Group establish its haemodialysis centre, and what was the reason behind it?
VL: The Cimas Health Group Dialysis Centre opened its doors to kidney failure patients in February 1999 as a joint venture with Baxter International-Gambro Lundia AB of Sweden. The purpose was to provide private renal replacement therapy in Harare. This initiative was driven by the limited availability of haemodialysis treatment facilities in Zimbabwe, which often forced acute and chronic kidney failure patients to seek urgent dialysis services outside the country.
ND: What services does the Cimas Haemodialysis Centre offer?
VN: Our Cimas Health Group Dialysis Centre provides services to chronic and acute kidney failure patients and kidney transplant work-up services. Our dialysis services are supported by an experienced nephrologist, on-site service engineers, skilled intensive care nurses, and dedicated administrative staff.
Additionally, we offer mobile haemodialysis services for patients admitted to intensive care units and renal treatment for patients over 60. With state-of-the-art Baxter AK98 dialysis machines and automatic LikaMed Dialysis chairs, we offer exceptionally high treatment standards.
ND: How prevalent is kidney disease in Zimbabwe and what are the major challenges faced?
VN: Kidney disease is a significant health concern in Zimbabwe due to limited access to early diagnosis and treatment, which could help to manage the disease in its initial stages. Statistics reveals that Zimbabwe records approximately 1 000 cases of kidney failure each year. However, only about 700 patients have access to dialysis treatment, leaving many without the care they desperately need.
The availability of dialysis services is mainly concentrated in urban areas like Harare, making it difficult for patients in rural regions to receive timely treatment.
ND: What role does early detection play in the treatment of kidney disease?
VN: Early detection and timely treatment can significantly slow the progression of kidney disease and improve long-term health outcomes.
Above all, regular screening is essential if someone is at risk of kidney disease due to diabetes, high blood pressure or a family history of kidney problems. I strongly encourage routine visits to healthcare providers who can detect kidney issues early, especially for those with the risk factors I mentioned earlier.
ND: What lifestyle changes can help to prevent kidney disease?
VN: Adopting a healthy lifestyle is crucial in reducing the risk of kidney disease. Regular exercise helps to maintain a healthy weight and lowers blood pressure, both of which contribute to better kidney health.
Since high blood pressure can cause kidney damage, it is important to monitor blood pressure regularly and manage it through a balanced diet, physical activity and medication when necessary. Maintaining a kidney-friendly diet is also vital. A diet low in salt and processed foods but rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains supports kidney function and overall well-being.
Small, consistent lifestyle changes can make a significant difference in protecting kidney health and preventing long-term complications.
ND: Given Zimbabwe’s electricity challenges, how does Cimas ensure uninterrupted dialysis services?
VN: Our haemodialysis centre was established to ensure patients requiring dialysis receive uninterrupted, reliable and efficient care, which is crucial for their health and well-being.
One of the standout features of our centre is its ability to function independently of the national electricity grid. The centre is fully powered by a 65Kv solar system, ensuring uninterrupted operations even during electricity outages.
Our backup power sources include the 85Kv generators and the three-phase Zesa power supply. Given the ongoing electricity crisis in Zimbabwe, this innovative solution enhances the reliability of our services while underscoring our commitment to sustainability in healthcare provision.
This ensures that dialysis patients receive uninterrupted treatment at all times.
In addition to energy security, the centre has a water purification plant, a critical component for dialysis procedures.
Since dialysis requires a constant supply of purified water to ensure patient safety and effective treatment, we have installed a state-of-the-art Gambro WRO 103H centralised dialysis water treatment plant and 50 000-litre water reservoir tanks.
This in-house water system guarantees a steady, uncontaminated water supply, further reinforcing our commitment to patient-centred care.
Our self-sufficiency in both power and water resources significantly enhances our ability to provide consistent, high-quality care to our patients, regardless of external challenges.
ND: How has the Cimas Haemodialysis Centre impacted Zimbabwe’s healthcare system?
VN: As Cimas Health Group, we recognise Zimbabwe’s growing burden of kidney disease and the critical need for sustainable, high-quality dialysis services. Our treatment capacity at Cimas Haemodialysis Centre has significantly helped to reduce the strain on the dialysis unit at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, where many renal patients receive care. Our dialysis centre operates with a 24-hour on-call service for emergencies, ensuring that patients receive care when they need it most. Through our haemodialysis centre, we are actively addressing the increasing demand for dialysis treatment while integrating sustainable, innovative solutions to enhance patient care. By providing world-class dialysis services, we are helping to bridge the gap in kidney care accessibility.
ND: What is Cimas Health Group’s long-term commitment to kidney health?
VN: As part of Cimas Health Group’s commitment to providing accessible, reliable, world-class, technology-driven healthcare solutions, we remain dedicated to expanding access to quality healthcare services, particularly in specialised areas such as nephrology. This aligns with our purpose to inspire healthier communities.
As we commemorate World Kidney Day, being celebrated under the theme: Are Your Kidneys OK, we encourage all Zimbabweans to prioritise their kidney health through regular screening, early detection and lifestyle change that can prevent kidney disease. We stand with patients, healthcare providers and stakeholders in advocating for better kidney health awareness, early intervention and sustainable treatment solutions. Together, We Can Make a Difference by raising awareness, educating the community, and promoting early intervention, we can work towards a healthier future for all Zimbabweans.
