More than 550 dental patients from Victoria Falls and Hwange have benefited from free dental care provided by a team of voluntary professionals from SmileStar, a global dental charity currently operating in Zimbabwe.
The 14-member team, hosted by Victoria Falls Safari Lodge and Hwange Safari Lodge, has been running mobile dental clinics since March 8, offering much-needed treatment to underprivileged communities.
Providing Essential Treatment and Education
SmileStar’s mission goes beyond just treating dental issues. Team leader Mitesh Badiani emphasized the importance of long-term oral health education.
“Access to dental care is often limited in these communities, and we are humbled to be able to provide much-needed treatment,” said Badiani. “Beyond immediate care, we are committed to educating patients on oral hygiene to ensure long-term benefits for their health.”
As part of the initiative, the team also conducted dental hygiene programmes, provided ongoing education, and left behind essential equipment and supplies to help sustain improvements in oral health.
Support from Local and International Partners
Mark Cockburn, founder of Dentex, Europe’s largest private dental group, applauded the initiative, highlighting its impact on the local communities.
“We are incredibly honoured to bring SmileStar’s work to Victoria Falls and Hwange. Our goal is not only to provide essential dental care to those in need, but also to equip these communities with the knowledge and resources to improve long-term oral health,” said Cockburn.
The initiative has received support from CIMAS, while Victoria Falls Safari Lodge provided free accommodation for the volunteer team, further enabling the programme’s success.
SmileStar’s ongoing efforts underscore the need for improved access to healthcare in remote areas, offering both immediate relief and lasting solutions to dental care challenges in Zimbabwe.
