On October 19th, history was made in Zimbabwe with the launch of the country’s second Electrocardiogram (ECG) by the Makhosi Michaela Foundation in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe’s second-largest city. The event, held at Stay Afrique Hotel, was attended by prominent figures, including the Deputy Director of Coordination for Bulawayo, Mr. P. Munyaka, who represented Bulawayo Provincial Minister, Hon. Judith Ncube.

The launch was witnessed by medical practitioners from various hospitals across Bulawayo, alongside parents and children supported by the Makhosi Michaela Foundation.

During the event, Mr. Munyaka delivered a speech on behalf of Hon. Judith Ncube, who commended the co-founders of the Makhosi Michaela Foundation, Mr. and Mrs. Davis, for their dedication. In her remarks, Hon. Ncube praised the parents raising children diagnosed with disabilities and expressed gratitude to the Davis family for their efforts in bringing the ECG machine to Bulawayo.

Describing the machine as a blessing to the city and the country, Hon. Ncube highlighted how the launch aligns with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 National Development Plan. She emphasized the significance of the ECG machine, stating, “As we inaugurate the Electrocardiogram machine today, let us pray that it becomes a blessing to everyone it touches and may it bring healing and new life to our children.”

Mr. Thurston Davis, the founder of the Makhosi Michaela Foundation, also spoke at the event, expressing his gratitude to everyone who attended and supported the launch. He hailed the introduction of the ECG machine as a major milestone for both the foundation and the country. “We are filled with joy and excitement to introduce the Electrocardiogram in Bulawayo and Zimbabwe. This is just the first step, and much more is yet to come,” said Mr. Davis.

Mrs. Ntando Davis, co-founder of the foundation, encouraged parents not to limit their children due to societal perceptions of disability, inspiring hope among families. “This initiative marks a significant step towards our Doctors Beyond Borders MMF- HEART TO HEART surgery program in 2025, where we aim to bring specialized pediatric cardio-thoracic surgeons to perform life-saving surgeries for those in need.” she added.

Dr. Tata, who was represented in absentia by Dr. Nkomo, conveyed her enthusiasm for the launch of the ECG machine. She emphasized the relief it would bring to parents and medical practitioners, offering renewed hope. According to Dr. Ncube, the machine will assist in early detection of heart issues, particularly by monitoring blood flow in the body.

Prior to this launch, Bulawayo had only one registered ECG machine, which could not meet the city’s growing demand. Mr. Thurston Davis revealed that two children under the foundation’s care, diagnosed with heart failure, had passed away, underscoring the importance of access to this life-saving technology.

Earlier this year, the Makhosi Michaela Foundation launched Inclusive Programs for the Down Syndrome community in Bulawayo. The foundation, dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with Down Syndrome, was founded by Thurston and Ntando Davis, who believe their daughter Makhosi Michaela will one day take over the foundation when she turns 25.