The Health Service Commission (HSC) Secretary, Dr Christopher Pasi, and the General Manager for Conditions of Service and Industrial Relations were among key guests who attended the World Hand Hygiene Day commemorations held at Chitungwiza Central Hospital . The event, organized under the global theme “It Might Be Gloves. It’s Always Hand Hygiene,” brought together health professionals, hospital administrators, students, and development partners to reaffirm the critical role of hand hygiene in infection prevention and control (IPC) across all levels of care.
In his keynote address, Dr Pasi applauded the hospital’s commitment to IPC best practices and emphasized the need to institutionalize hand hygiene culture across the entire public health system. “Hand hygiene is the foundation of patient safety,” said Dr Pasi. “As the Commission, we are committed to ensuring that the necessary policies, resources, and training are in place to empower health workers to protect themselves and the patients they serve.”
He added that the Health Service Commission will continue to strengthen collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MOHCC) to ensure that IPC measures are prioritized in all healthcare facilities.
Dr Makota, Chief Medical Officer at Chitungwiza Central Hospital, said the institution had made significant strides in promoting hygiene standards despite limited resources. “Our facility has embraced a culture of safety and accountability,” said Dr Makota. “We have seen a reduction in healthcare-associated infections through persistent hand hygiene audits, staff engagement, and public awareness campaigns.” He further called for sustained investment in IPC infrastructure such as handwashing stations, alcohol-based hand rubs, and training programmes.
Mrs Mangeya, the MOHCC IPC Manager, praised frontline healthcare workers for their dedication and highlighted the need for continuous monitoring and mentorship to maintain standards. “Hand hygiene must move beyond being a symbolic activity—it must be second nature,” she said. “We must accelerate action together by integrating IPC into routine health delivery and performance indicators.”
The commemorations included hand hygiene demonstrations, a tour of the hospital’s IPC corners, and the recognition of outstanding IPC champions among staff. World Hand Hygiene Day, marked annually in May , is spearheaded by the World Health Organization to raise awareness about the importance of hand hygiene in preventing infections and safeguarding patient care.