Zimbabwe Closes 35 Illegal Clinics in Nationwide Health Crackdown

Zimbabwe has closed 35 unlicensed healthcare facilities this year, some run by unqualified individuals posing as doctors, as part of a nationwide effort to protect public health, the Health Professions Authority of Zimbabwe (HPA) has confirmed.

HPA secretary-general Clotilda Chimbwanda said inspections revealed serious malpractice.

“Violations included the absence of valid operating licences, and in some cases, facilities were being run by personnel without proper qualifications, pretending to be healthcare professionals,” she explained.

“These numbers reflect concrete steps taken to eliminate significant risks to our communities,” Chimbwanda added.The HPA warned that unregistered clinics and fake practitioners posed severe dangers to patients.

“They operate without oversight, often using substandard equipment and administering inappropriate or even harmful treatments,” Chimbwanda said.

The authority is also pursuing legal action against those responsible. “Our efforts aim not only to shut these facilities down but also to hold the individuals accountable,” she stated.

Health institutions were reminded to prominently display valid HPA operating licences to show compliance with Ministry of Health regulations.

Chimbwanda urged patients to verify practitioners’ certifications.

“Anyone providing medical consultation or treatment must hold a current practising certificate from the appropriate Health Professions Council, demonstrating their professional registration, qualifications, and fitness to practise in Zimbabwe,” she said.

The HPA indicated that the September 2025 closures mark the start of a more rigorous, ongoing inspection program across all provinces, covering both urban and rural areas.

“This is a permanent commitment to regulatory excellence, ensuring every healthcare facility in Zimbabwe meets legal, safety, and operational standards,” Chimbwanda said.

She concluded that inspections will continue until the public can trust that all healthcare providers nationwide are properly licensed and qualified.

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