The City of Harare is stepping up efforts to expand access to affordable healthcare through the Community Health Equity Fund (CHEF), which has recorded 6,345 cumulative enrolments since its launch in November 2025. The City’s Health Department, in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and ZB Financial Holdings, held a strategic review meeting at Rainbow Towers on Monday to assess the programme’s progress and explore ways of reaching more residents. The meeting was attended by Health, Disaster, Risk Management and Public Safety Committee Chairperson Cllr Jane Bhingari, councillors, health officials and stakeholders. City Health Director Dr Prosper Chonzi was represented by Dr Michael Vere, who delivered the opening remarks. The programme’s implementation progress was presented by Health Services Manager Mr Richard Chigerwe. CHEF was introduced to strengthen community participation in healthcare financing and improve access to essential health services through affordable contributions. The programme recorded 1,650 enrolments in 2025 and a further 4,695 in 2026, bringing cumulative enrolments to 6,345. Its service utilisation figures include 1,235 maternity cases, 93 outpatient department visits and 749 funeral cash plan utilisations. Speaking at the meeting, UNFPA Technical Specialist, Dr Peter Mukasa, emphasised that healthcare is a right, not a privilege, highlighting the importance of partnerships in improving access to essential health services. ZB Financial Holdings Head of Sales, Mr Alen Deda, said the institution was committed to supporting initiatives that positively impact on communities. “As a corporate citizen, we need to participate in such programmes so that we impact lives positively,” he said. To increase enrolment, the City is proposing intensified publicity, door-to-door registration, registration kiosks and outreach activities targeting schools, churches, businesses and community groups. The expansion strategy is also expected to strengthen CHEF’s presence across Harare’s Southern, Western, Eastern and Northern districts. Residents can register for CHEF by dialling **2254*2#*, visiting the online registration platform at [https://chef.zb.co.zw/auth/landing](https://chef.zb.co.zw/auth/landing), or visiting their nearest City of Harare clinic. Through CHEF, the City continues to strengthen community participation in healthcare financing and promote first-class service delivery in pursuit of its vision of Harare, a liveable smart city of choice.
