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SmileStar, a global dental charity dedicated to providing free dental care to underprivileged communities, is in Zimbabwe having begun its free dental clinics at Chinotimba Clinic in Victoria Falls on 8 March. The team treated patients there until 13 March before moving to Hwange, where they are conducting clinics until 22 March 2025. The team of 14 voluntary dental professionals, who have self-funded their trip, were hosted by Victoria Falls Safari Lodge in Victoria Falls while Hwange Safari Lodge is hosting the team in Hwange.
SmileStar, which is supported by many volunteers from Dentex, Europe’s largest private dental group, undertakes three to four two-week missions each year to deliver essential dental treatment and education to underprivileged communities. In 2024, SmileStar teams provided dental care in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mozambique, Jamaica, and Kenya, transforming the lives of thousands of people.
During their mission to Victoria Falls, the SmileStar team treated 550 patients. Dr Mitesh Badiani, Team Leader of the mission, emphasised the importance of their work, saying, “Access to dental care is often limited in these communities, and we are humbled to be able to provide much-needed treatment. Beyond immediate care, we are committed to educating patients on oral hygiene to ensure long-term benefits for their health.”
The team’s work extends beyond treatment, as they also carry out dental hygiene programmes and provide ongoing education on oral care for local communities. In addition, the team leaves behind equipment and supplies to ensure sustained improvements in oral health.
Mark Cockburn, who founded Dentex nine years ago and plays an active role in SmileStar’s initiatives, expressed his enthusiasm for this mission. “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. We are deeply grateful for the warm hospitality extended to us by Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, which has made our mission here even more special.”
Speaking on the team’s experience at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, Dr Badiani stated, “Our stay at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge was exceptional. The genuine warmth and attentiveness of the staff, combined with strong management presence, made a lasting impression on us, and our stay was truly unforgettable.”
During their time in Victoria Falls, the team had the opportunity to explore the destination, including a tour of the Falls, a helicopter flight over the Falls, and dining at some of the destination’s renowned dining establishments including The Boma – Dinner & Drum Show and Dusty Road.
Africa Albida Tourism Managing Director, Nigel Frost, welcomed the initiative, stating, “Hosting the SmileStar team at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge aligns perfectly with our commitment to community support and sustainable tourism. Their work will have a profound and lasting impact on the people of Victoria Falls and Hwange, and we are proud to have played our part in this noble effort.”
“We also appreciate the invaluable contribution of CIMAS in supporting this mission, which has further strengthened the impact of this initiative”, added Frost.
In addition to hosting the SmileStar team, Victoria Falls Safari Lodge also sponsored accommodation for a two-man team from CIMAS, who are supporting the clinics and contributing to the success of this vital healthcare initiative.
SmileStar’s dedication to transforming dental healthcare for underprivileged communities continues to make a significant difference worldwide. Their visit to Zimbabwe is expected to leave a lasting legacy of improved oral health.
Africa Albida Tourism hospitality group operates the Victoria Falls Safari Collection, a portfolio of properties renowned for capturing the very essence of Africa in one of the region’s most iconic destinations – Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.
The collection incorporates the flagship Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, the premium 20-room Victoria Falls Safari Club, the spacious Victoria Falls Safari Suites, the family-friendly Lokuthula Lodges – Victoria Falls, the deluxe MaKuwa-Kuwa Restaurant, the “must-do” Boma – Dinner & Drum Show and the Victoria Falls Safari Spa, all located on the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge estate, just 4km from the Victoria Falls.
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