Update from Chidamoyo for July 2007

As you probably know from the news media, life in Zimbabwe is very tough at the moment. Inflation is now over 20,000% and prices are increasing exponentially. There are serious food shortages and people struggle to pay the high prices for whatever is available. Salaries are not keeping up with inflation and many are doing without basic necessities. Recently Kathy, the matron of Chidamoyo Christian Hospital, had to spend the equivalent of her whole month's salary to pay for a couple of chickens and some vegetables!

The hospital has also been struggling with daily electricity cuts. The government doesn't have money to buy the electricity needed from surrounding countries, so the times without electricity grow ever more frequent. Some days the hospital only has electricity during the middle of the night. There is a generator but because of the shortage of fuel and the expense it is only run when absolutely necessary.

However it is not all doom and gloom. The new laboratory extension which is being funded by the Chidamoyo Trust with money raised by Reading Roadrunners has reached roof level. Laboratory equipment bought with funding from the Trust is due to arrive in Chidamoyo in August.

The Chidamoyo Trust continues to support the work of the hospital by sponsoring children through high school. We have recently transferred enough money to ensure the education of these young poeple.

Through the Orphan Support Programme we also pay for the provision of retro-viral drugs for orphans who would not receive these life-saving drugs without your generosity. The picture accompanying this article shows two beautiful young twins who are suffering from AIDS are receiving their medication.

The people of Chidamoyo wish to thank all those who help them through their continued kindness and generosity.