Story By Tamuka Charakupa
THE Government’s devolution programme continues to drive tangible transformation in the health sector, with construction of Marimari Clinic in Sanyati now more than 90 percent complete.
For years, residents of Marimari Village in Ward 13 travelled long distances to Kadoma and other surrounding areas to access basic healthcare services, often incurring high transport costs and facing serious risks during emergencies. Pregnant women, the elderly and young children were among the most affected.
The establishment of a one-stop primary healthcare facility under the devolution framework is set to significantly ease these challenges by bringing essential health services closer to the community.
Marimari Clinic Project Chairperson, Mr Marvellous Machingura, said the development marks a major milestone for the area.
“We used to travel to Kadoma or other distant clinics for treatment. For pregnant women, the elderly and children, it was very difficult. Sometimes transport was not available, and emergencies became life-threatening. This clinic will bring services closer to us and reduce both costs and risks,” he said.
Residents have welcomed the near completion of the facility, expressing optimism that it will improve maternal health outcomes, immunisation coverage and access to general outpatient services.
Mrs Sylvia Tsarara said the community was grateful for the intervention.
“We are grateful to Government for remembering our community. With this clinic almost complete, we believe maternal health, immunisation programmes and general outpatient services will improve significantly,” she said.
Another resident, Ms Anolity Moyo, said the project demonstrates the practical impact of devolution funding.
“This project shows that devolution funds are working. We feel included in national development. Our hope is that the clinic will be fully equipped and staffed so that we can access quality healthcare here at home,” she said.
The Sanyati Rural District Council (RDC) has attributed the progress to devolution funding, which has reduced reliance on limited local revenue streams while accelerating infrastructure development.
Sanyati RDC Chairperson, Mr Stanford Chaombezvi, confirmed that structural works have been finalised.
“The Marimari Clinic is now over 90 percent complete. We have finalised structural works and are now focusing on interior fittings and essential utilities. Once complete, this facility will provide comprehensive primary healthcare services to Ward 13 and surrounding communities. Devolution funding has enabled us to prioritise critical infrastructure without over-relying on our constrained local revenue base,” he said.
Sanyati RDC Chief Executive Officer, Mr Achim Shadaya, said devolution has fundamentally reshaped local governance.
“Instead of waiting for central interventions, councils are now empowered to identify priority projects and implement them directly. In Sanyati, we have seen improvements not only in health infrastructure but also in roads, water systems and education facilities,” he said.
Government continues to urge communities to actively utilise Village Development Committees and Ward Development Committees to champion grassroots-driven initiatives under the devolution framework.
The near completion of Marimari Clinic stands as a testament to the practical impact of decentralised development, bringing essential services within reach and reinforcing inclusive national progress.
