British America Tobacco (BAT) Zimbabwe Limited, the countrys largest cigarette manufacturer has strengthened its position as a responsible corporate citizen by investing $6 million in a staff clinic at the companys factory.

Dr David Parirenyatwa, the Minister of Health and Child Welfare, opened the new $6 million medical facility at BATs offices in Harare last week.

Parirenyatwa said the provision of health facilities at workplaces had become important for the maintenance of the countrys economic viability, given the background of the HIV/ Aids pandemic currently ravaging Zimbabwe, and countries in the region.

He said: Zimbabwe is facing a large number of health concerns. Among the most serious is malaria, and of course HIV/ Aids. Our work-force is, therefore, steadily getting depleted thus affecting the economic viability of our nation.

The British American Tobacco Company Zimbabwe should therefore be commended for focusing on the health and well being of its employees.

The clinic at BAT offers a wide range of medical services for the companys 400 workers. It is administered by a trained medical sister, Angelica Ganya. A medical doctor will visit the facility twice a week. The two medical practitioners will attend to workers general and special medical problems. Employees will also enjoy counselling services on HIV/ Aids matters and stress management. X-ray checks and hearing tests would be conducted free-of-charge on an annual basis for all employees, while management would also enjoy medical examinations each year.

To further strengthen its social responsibility, BAT has also undertaken to contribute 100 percent to all its employees medical aid facility.

After officially opening the clinic, Parirenyatwa presided over BATs long service award ceremony. Forty employees, whose service with the BAT ranges from 10 to 40 years, were recognised for their loyalty.

They all received certificates and cash awards totalling $1,1 million. Parirenyatwa urged other companies to emulate BAT in improving the welfare of workers, and recognising employees for loyalty and dedication.