For over 60 years, the Dominican Sisters in Zimbabwe have run St. Theresa Hospital in Chirimanzu, making a profound impact on the lives of young people by training them to become skilled primary care nurses and registered general nurses. Their legacy of compassion, education, and healthcare continues to shape the future of nursing in Zimbabwe.
By Sr. Mufaro Chakuinga, LCBL
The Dominican Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus are part of the worldwide Dominican family founded by St. Dominic de Guzmán in 1216 and approved by Pope Honorius III. Rooted in prayer, community, study, and preaching, they share the Order’s mission to proclaim truth in word and deed.
With a presence in 14 communities across Zimbabwe, they serve in various ministries, including education, healthcare, and social services. Guided by their motto “to contemplate and share the fruits of our contemplation,” they live out their faith through compassionate service and formation of conscience and intellect.
With a legacy spanning over 60 years, their institutions like St. Theresa Hospital in Chirimanzu and St. Theresa’s School of Nursing continue to make a profound impact on the lives of people in Zimbabwe.
St. Theresa School of Nursing
Rooted in a mission to serve the poor and vulnerable, the sisters were motivated to begin the training of nurses in response to the critical shortage of healthcare workers in rural Zimbabwe. The hospital was opened in 1957, and it is a 180 bedded health institute.
The sisters started to train primary care nurses in 2004 and two years later the registered general nurses. Their vision is deeply grounded in a holistic approach to education, blending professional training with Christian values and compassionate service.
The Tutor in charge of St Theresa School of Nursing, Sr Apollonia Banda, OP, said she believed that every investment in nursing education is an investment in the health and future of the nation.
She called on well-wishers, institutions, and individuals to partner with the Dominicans through funding, advocacy, or skills development to ensure that every student nurse at St. Theresa continues to build a brighter future for healthcare in Zimbabwe, especially in the province of Gweru.
Impact and achievements
Despite resource limitations, St. Theresa School of Nursing has continued to make significant strides.
“We have maintained a 100% pass rate, increased a number of enrolments and our graduates are serving in both mission and government hospitals across the country and are shining despite the challenges they face,” said Sr Banda. The community has expressed profound appreciation for the role the school plays in improving local healthcare and also enrolling candidates from the local community.
Testimonials
Calvin Mutambisi (26) a former student from St. Theresa, expressed appreciation for the mentorship he got from the Dominican Sisters.
“It had a profound impact on my life, shaping my character and instilling values like integrity, compassion, and respect,” he said. “The biblical foundation they provided helped me develop strong morals and make ethical decisions.” He added that the supportive environment at St. Theresa allowed him to grow and explore faith.
A member of the Little Children of our Blessed Lady (LCBL) Sisters, Sr. Bridget Chademana expressed her gratitude towards the expertise she got from St. Theresa School of Nursing. She was trained for three years and got a diploma in registered general nursing.
Sr. Chademana appraised the services that are offered at St. Theresa which made her an outstanding nurse with abundant knowledge, time conscious and urgent-minded person.
Challenges and future plans
St. Theresa School of Nursing faced a devastating fire disaster in 2024, likely caused by an electrical fault, which destroyed several buildings and students’ belongings.
The School is working to overcome funding gaps and temporary student relocation challenges. With their plans to complete new constructions and renovate damaged infrastructure, they are strengthening partnerships with the ministry of Health, local and international supporters to ensure the school’s continued success.
As the Dominican Sisters in Zimbabwe continue to shape the future of nursing, their legacy of compassion, education, and healthcare remains a beacon of hope for the nation.
With a profound impact on the lives of young people and the community, St. Theresa Hospital and School of Nursing stand as testaments to the power of dedication and service.
Despite challenges, the sisters remain committed to their mission, and with the support of well-wishers and partners, they will continue to build a brighter future for healthcare in Zimbabwe.
