Story by Tichaona Kurewa
GOVERNMENT has commissioned Sikajaya Clinic at Binga Centre in Binga District, marking another step in the rollout of decentralised healthcare services under the devolution programme and the broader Vision 2030 agenda.
The new facility is expected to significantly improve access to primary healthcare for surrounding communities, many of whom previously travelled long distances to Binga District Hospital for basic medical services.
Named after national hero Cde Sikajaya Andrew Muntanga, the clinic has been warmly received by residents, who say it will ease the burden of travel costs and delays in accessing treatment.
“We are happy about the clinic. When it opens, it will assist us a lot because we will no longer be walking long distances to Binga District Hospital.
“This is a health service at our doorstep. We are grateful to the government for this initiative,” residents said.
Beneficiaries also highlighted that the clinic will improve access to critical medication, including treatment for high blood pressure and antiretroviral therapy (ART).
“With a clinic at our doorstep, the child mortality rate will certainly go down. We appreciate what the government has done for us,” another community member said.
Health and council officials say the establishment of Sikajaya Clinic is already easing pressure on Binga District Hospital.
“A lot of people are now preferring to come here because it is nearer to them than going to the hospital. This means the hospital has been decongested. The number of clients coming here has increased, while the volume of those attending the district hospital has reduced,” the Nurse in Charge at Sikajaya Clinic, Mr John Mugande said.
He added that the clinic is attracting more patients because services are currently offered free of charge, unlike at the district hospital, where consultation fees are required.
Meanwhile, Binga Rural District Council Engineer, Mr Zibusiso Nyoni, said the clinic was constructed using a combination of central government devolution funds and council resources, at a cost of approximately US$35 000.
“We also have two upcoming clinics that are almost 95 % complete. These are Mayanda Clinic in Pashu Ward 19 and Mabogolo Clinic in Mabogolo Ward,” he said.
Sikajaya Clinic is equipped with a pharmacy, waiting area, duty room, consultation and treatment rooms, and is expected to serve a catchment population of approximately 6 000 people.
The development underscores government’s focus on strengthening community-based healthcare infrastructure as a foundation for inclusive growth and improved quality of life under Vision 2030.
