Revolutionizing Diabetes Care in Zimbabwe: A New Era of Accessibility and Innovation

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On the 15th of May, I had the honor of being invited by DMD Healthcare, in partnership with New Avakash International and Cimas, to attend "Diabetes Management Unlocked: Holistic Presentations on Diabetes Care in Zimbabwe, Options and Opportunities" at Cresta Lodge, Msasa, Harare. This event marked a significant milestone in diabetes care for Zimbabwe, gathering experts and stakeholders to discuss innovative solutions and advancements in managing diabetes.

The collaboration between Cimas, New Avakash International, and DMD Healthcare facilitated a vital Continuing Medical Education (CME) session that highlighted the importance of education in improving patient outcomes. One of the most groundbreaking revelations was the introduction of Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) systems and insulin pumps in Zimbabwe. The AiDEX CGM, with its 10-day sensor life and 5-minute reading intervals, and insulin pumps are now available through DMD Healthcare. This development is a game-changer for diabetes management in Zimbabwe.


Dr. Mangwiro kicked off the event with an insightful overview of diabetes, reflecting on the evolution of diagnostic methods and management practices. He recalled the days when urine sticks were the primary diagnostic tool and emphasized the importance of fasting blood glucose levels. As someone living with diabetes, he shared how CGM has revolutionized his approach to managing the condition, allowing for more precise insulin adjustments. The introduction of insulin infusion pumps further enhances the ability to maintain optimal blood glucose levels, making diabetes management more efficient and less burdensome.

Dr. Masiya's presentation delved into the progression of Type 2 diabetes, underscoring the critical need for early intervention. He discussed the latent phase of the disease and the importance of screening in primary care settings. His insights highlighted the feasibility, substantial benefits, and cost-effectiveness of early diabetes management.


Dr. Gomo, under the theme "Mind the Gap," provided an in-depth analysis of insulin pumps and CGM. He defined and classified CGM, presenting a compelling case study of a Type 1 diabetes patient utilizing a CGM system. Dr. Gomo explained how CGM aids in estimating HbA1c levels, allowing for timely interventions. He also discussed the 2024 ADA guidelines on CGM utility and the advantages of open and closed-loop systems. Furthermore, he highlighted the ADA recommendations on insulin pump usage and pointed out the gap in the current system where medical aid societies compensate per service rather than based on patient outcomes.


Representatives from Cimas Distributors shared exciting news about a new initiative linking them with Novo Nordisk. This partnership enables Cimas to source medications directly from Denmark at a 30% discount, providing significant financial relief for Zimbabwean patients.

Key lessons from data collection revealed the increasing cost of diabetes care despite poor outcomes. Tighter diabetes management correlates with lower claims ratios, indicating the need for improved data capturing and electronic patient record systems. Additionally, significant mental health challenges among the diabetes population necessitate a more holistic approach to care.

The introduction of Dapagliflozin, a highly selective SGLT2 inhibitor, represents a major advancement in the treatment of Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Originally intended for diabetes, SGLT2 inhibitors have proven beneficial in endocrinology, cardiology, and nephrology. Dapagliflozin improves beta-cell function, reduces HbA1c levels, and lowers the risk of hospitalization for heart failure in adults with T2DM and established cardiovascular disease or multiple cardiovascular risk factors.

This event is a monumental step towards enhancing diabetes care in Zimbabwe. For the first time, Zimbabweans no longer need to rely on neighboring countries for access to CGM and insulin pumps. These technologies are now locally available through DMD Healthcare, providing consistency and reliability in diabetes management. This availability means that patients can now access these life-changing tools without fear of inconsistency, enabling them to manage their diabetes more effectively and improve their quality of life.

As an independent advocate, I want to clarify that I am not paid to spread this news. I have not personally used these devices, but I know many who have, and their experiences have been overwhelmingly positive. I share this information because I believe everyone should have access to the best diabetes technology. I have benefited from such advancements and hope to continue using them, and I want the same for everyone in our community.

The future of diabetes care in Zimbabwe and across Africa looks brighter than ever. With continued innovation and collaboration, we can overcome the challenges of diabetes management and improve the lives of countless individuals. The journey is just beginning, and together, we can make a significant impact.


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