Story by Tamuka Charakupa
THE government is stepping up efforts to improve access to primary healthcare in Makonde District through the construction of three clinics, with Mvumbi Clinic expected to open within the next two months.
The new facilities are part of a broader drive to strengthen health service delivery in rural communities, supported by infrastructure upgrades such as road rehabilitation and active participation from local residents.
Villagers say the Mvumbi Clinic will significantly reduce the distances many residents currently travel to seek medical attention.
“We want to thank His Excellency the President, through our Member of Parliament, for ensuring that no place and no one is left behind. This clinic is a clear sign that development is now reaching our community,” said Chiota village head, Mrs Loise Rwodzi.
Local resident Mrs Nyarai Bhaureni noted that the development would particularly benefit vulnerable groups.
“This clinic will bring great relief to many people here, especially the elderly and pregnant women who used to travel long distances to access health services,” she said.
Community members have also contributed labour and materials to accelerate the project.
“As a community, we believe that nyika inovakwa nevene vayo. We are also playing our part by moulding bricks and providing labour to make sure the clinic is completed,” resident Mr Blessing Mandeya said.
Residents also pointed to other development projects underway in the area.
“We are witnessing many developments in our area. Apart from the construction of clinics, there is also improvement in water provision and the rehabilitation of roads,” Mr Enery Magonde added.
The construction of the clinics has been funded through the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), spearheaded by Makonde legislator, Honourable Simbarashe Ziyambi.
“The Constituency Development Fund has done a lot in the area of healthcare. In Makonde Constituency, the fund has been used for various projects, which include the construction of three clinics. One of them is Chihwiti Clinic in Ward 18, and two others, Muvhami Clinic and Chijaka Clinic in Ward, all meant to improve access to healthcare for people in Makonde. Through the fund, we have managed to procure building materials such as cement, door frames, window frames and roofing materials for the clinics.”
The government has introduced a cocktail of measures aimed at improving access to healthcare, including the implementation of the National Health Community Strategy, which seeks to ensure that no place and no one is left behind when it comes to access to health services.
