By Staff Reporter
HARARE – Zimbabwe will join the rest of the world in commemorating International Paramedics Day for the first time on July 8, with a series of public activities aimed at celebrating the contribution of emergency medical professionals to healthcare delivery.
The national celebrations, coordinated by Health and Safety Solutions (HSS), will be held at Town House in Harare under the 2026 theme, “Innovate & Integrate.”
The event is expected to bring together government officials, healthcare practitioners, emergency medical service providers, corporate partners and members of the public in recognition of the role paramedics play in saving lives and strengthening the country’s healthcare system.
Among the highlights of the celebrations will be an ambulance parade involving emergency medical fleets from various service providers. The procession will start at Freedom Square, pass through major streets in Harare’s central business district and end at Town House.
Members of the public will also witness a live mock emergency drill designed to demonstrate the speed, coordination and expertise required in responding to emergencies.
A Citizen First Aid Corner will provide an opportunity for residents to learn cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and basic first aid skills from trained emergency medical personnel. Healthcare companies and corporate partners are also expected to exhibit their products and services, while long-serving and outstanding practitioners will be recognised during the Emergency Medical Services Awards ceremony.
Speaking ahead of the commemorations, organising secretary Getrude Chihwisa said the inaugural event seeks to honour the sacrifices and professionalism of emergency medical personnel while raising awareness about emergency medical services.
“The inaugural International Paramedics Day celebrations provide Zimbabweans with an opportunity to appreciate the professionals who stand between life-threatening crises and successful hospital outcomes while showcasing the evolution of paramedicine as an essential pillar of healthcare delivery,” she said.
This year’s theme, “Innovate & Integrate,” highlights the growing role of paramedics in advancing patient care, embracing digital technologies, strengthening clinical integration and leading developments in education and research.
International Paramedics Day was launched in 2022 and is observed annually on July 8 to mark the birth anniversary of Dominique-Jean Larrey, who is regarded as the father of modern ambulance services.
Organisers have encouraged members of the public to attend the celebrations and participate in online discussions using the hashtags
