Story by Chikomborero Kanyemba
SOLAR-powered health facilities are transforming maternal and neonatal healthcare in Binga, Matabeleland North Province, bringing reliable life-saving services closer to rural communities through health systems strengthening programmes.
The initiative is being led by the Ministry of Health and Child Care, in partnership with the Global Fund and the United Nations Development Programme.
Inside the neonatal unit at Binga District Hospital, solar-powered incubators, heaters and phototherapy machines are helping save the lives of premature and low birth weight babies through the Immediate Kangaroo Mother Care Unit.
For mothers in the district, the developments are bringing relief and renewed hope as critical neonatal services become available locally.
“I know this machine is treating my babies, and I am happy our hospital has improved. I can charge my phone and give constant updates to the people who are at home,” a mother, Ignet Dube stated.
The transformation is also being felt beyond Binga District Hospital.
Kariyangwe Mission Hospital has been equipped with solar power and a digital X-ray machine, improving diagnostic services, while Simatelele Rural Health Centre now has a solar-powered system and a modern pharmacy, strengthening medicine storage and maternal healthcare delivery.
“Our clinic has changed. We are no longer going to Binga or Bulawayo hospitals for X-rays; we are now getting them here in Kariyangwe,” a Kariyangwe community member, Mudhimba Richard noted.
“This solar programme has changed our lives in Simatelele since 2022. Our clinic and health practitioners now have lights, and they can help us day and night,” Simatelele community member, Mavis Munkuli added.
Binga District Medical Officer, Dr Sibonginkosi Ncube says the installation of reliable solar energy systems is improving emergency response services, maternity care and overall service delivery across the district.
“We received a 40kVA solar plant that supports the whole hospital, including the wards, theatre, laboratory and administration blocks. Previously, power challenges affected service delivery, especially at night, but now we have reliable electricity throughout the day and night.”
As Government continues investing in renewable energy and rural healthcare infrastructure under the Second Republic, communities in Binga are witnessing improved access to healthcare services and strengthened maternal and neonatal care systems.
