Story by Mercy Bofu-Matinha
IN a clear demonstration of the Second Republic’s commitment to improving access to healthcare, over 1 000 residents from Gutu Central received free medical services during a weekend outreach programme spearheaded by area legislator, Honourable Winston Chitando.
The medical outreach, which provided a range of essential health services including dental care, chronic disease screening, and primary healthcare consultations, has been widely applauded by villagers as a practical step towards achieving President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s vision for universal healthcare and improved rural livelihoods.
Beneficiaries in the Chesvingo area and Mupandawana Growth Point said the initiative had brought much-needed relief to communities that often struggle to access specialist care.
“This programme has helped many in our constituency as it is being implemented in every ward. Many times, we fail to see doctors and specialists, but this gives us an opportunity to access healthcare services, which is why you see so many people coming. Today I came with my daughter, who was not feeling well, and we all managed to get assistance, including medication, and we are grateful for that,” Ms Constance Mudyiwa said.
“We want to thank President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his administration for prioritising rural development. We have seen a number of clinics being built in our areas, and we constantly have doctors visiting us for free medical check-ups. This is key to building a healthy nation that contributes meaningfully to economic development,” Mr George Dzinotizei said.
Leader of the medical team, Dr Malvern Muzerengi, said they are also using the outreach to promote better health lifestyles among rural communities, considering the rising number of chronic diseases.
“For this weekend, we managed to provide services at two centres, that is Chesvingo and Mupandawana Growth Point. The response has been overwhelming as we are providing primary healthcare services, including medication. We are also teaching communities about healthy lifestyles because many are living with chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension. In total, we have assisted over 1 000 people, surpassing our target,” he said.
Honourable Chitando emphasised that the initiative aligns with Vision 2030 and the government’s ongoing efforts to ensure no community is left behind in accessing quality healthcare.
“His Excellency, President Mnangagwa, has emphasised inclusive development, and health is central to that. This outreach ensures that our rural people have the same access to services as those in towns. Alongside this, several clinics are under construction in Gutu Central, with some already completed. We thank the government for prioritising rural development,” he said.
Beyond medical outreach programmes, the government continues to establish and equip clinics and hospitals across the country to ensure communities have access to essential healthcare services and medication.
