A two-week dental outreach led by Cimas Health Group in partnership with the United Kingdom-based charity SmileStar has brought free oral healthcare services to hundreds of patients across Matabeleland North and South, underscoring the growing role of partnerships in expanding access to care.
The initiative, which concluded on March 20, forms part of Cimas Health Group’s corporate social responsibility program and focused on underserved communities with limited access to dental services.
The outreach provided treatments including tooth extractions, restorative procedures and oral health education.
“This is our second time fusing global expertise with local capacity to provide free essential oral healthcare services,” said Vuli Ndlovu, chief executive officer of Cimas Health Group.
“It is a critical yet often overlooked component of overall health for the communities we serve.”
The program began on March 9 in Victoria Falls before moving to Dete in Hwange, then to Matobo and concluding at Matopo Mission Clinic.
Over the course of the outreach, medical teams treated large numbers of patients daily, performing hundreds of extractions and dozens of restorative procedures at each location.
The initiative also marked the first time the outreach expanded into Matabeleland South, building on last year’s inaugural program, which treated more than 1,100 patients.
Ndlovu emphasized that collaboration between local and international partners is central to delivering sustainable healthcare solutions.
“Sustainable healthcare cannot be achieved in isolation, but through strong, purpose-driven partnerships that combine expertise, resources and a shared commitment to healthier communities,” he said.
The outreach brought together local partners, including hospitality groups in Victoria Falls and Hwange, alongside SmileStar’s team of volunteer dental professionals.
This year’s program saw an expanded medical team, increasing capacity to meet demand in remote areas.
Beyond immediate treatment, the initiative also focused on prevention. Ndlovu said raising awareness around oral hygiene is key to improving long-term health outcomes and reducing pressure on the broader healthcare system.
“Preventive care saves lives, reduces complications and lowers costs,” he said, encouraging communities to seek early dental check-ups.
SmileStar founder Dr. Mitesh Badiani described the collaboration as impactful in addressing gaps in access to oral healthcare.
He noted that the outreach exceeded expectations, particularly in Matabeleland North, where turnout was high and more than 1,000 patients were treated over five days of clinical service.
The program reflects a broader shift in healthcare delivery, where providers are increasingly extending services beyond traditional facilities through mobile clinics and community-based initiatives.
For Cimas Health Group, Ndlovu said, the goal is clear: “Healthcare must be accessible, inclusive and sustainable.”
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