Staff Writer
Smilestar, a UK-based dental charity, has successfully partnered with Cimas Health Group to provide free oral healthcare to underserved communities in Matabeleland North province.
The two-week-long dental outreach program, which concluded on March 20, was made possible through the collaboration between Smilestar and Cimas Health Group, Zimbabwe’s longest-standing private medical aid society. The initiative provided essential oral healthcare services to remote communities.
Cimas Health Group supported the outreach by providing doctors and a fully equipped mobile dental clinic.
According to the organization, the mobile unit delivers the same level of care as a high-end dental clinic, ensuring quality treatment in underserved areas.
Led by Smilestar founder Dr. Mitesh Badiani, the outreach program commenced on March 10 at Chinotimba Clinic in Victoria Falls, running for four days before moving to Hwange, where services were offered at Hwange Miombo Safari Camp from March 17 to March 20.
Dr. Badiani emphasized the importance of the partnership in achieving their goals, highlighting how Cimas Health Group’s resources significantly enhanced their ability to provide comprehensive dental care. He noted that the mobile clinic and the expertise of Cimas doctors, including Dr Alan Gura, allowed for a wider range of treatments, including restorative procedures and simple root canal treatments.
“This is how I envisage the future of Smilestar worldwide—having a mobile dental clinic accompany our team in every outreach program,” Dr. Badiani said.
He expressed gratitude to Zimbabwe-born UK resident Mark Cockburn for his role in facilitating Smilestar’s trip to Zimbabwe.
Dr Badiani also underscored the importance of volunteer dentists and support staff, who self-fund their trips to ensure the success of these outreach programs.
He highlighted the need for improved oral hygiene education in schools and noted that affordability remains a significant barrier to dental healthcare in the region, where a single tooth extraction can cost up to US$80.
When asked about future expansion, Dr. Badiani expressed enthusiasm but stressed the need for continued partnerships.
“We would love to expand, but we need support from partners who can assist with accommodation, food, and transport for our team,” he said.
Meanwhile, Cimas Health Group CEO Mr. Vuli Ndlovu reaffirmed their commitment to community health, stating that the outreach program aligns with their mission to inspire healthier communities.
“We are proud to have collaborated with Smilestar and local partners such as Chinotimba Clinic, Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, and Hwange Miombo Safari Camp. This initiative enhances oral health awareness and accessibility, ultimately improving community well-being.”
Mr. Ndlovu emphasized that healthcare, including oral health, is a fundamental right, and Cimas Health Group remains committed to bridging the gap in underserved communities.
“Through this outreach, we provided not only immediate dental treatment but also education to empower communities with sustainable oral health knowledge,” he added.
He also confirmed that Cimas officials would join the Ministry of Health and Child Care’s World Oral Health Day commemorations at Kusile Government Primary School in Lupane District on March 20, reinforcing their commitment to national health initiatives.
DR Alan Gura performing a procedure on a patient at Chinotimba Clinic in Victoria Falls
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