Story by Courage Bushe
CONSTRUCTION of Toendepi Polyclinic in the Vuto area of Shurugwi District, is now at an advanced stage, marking a major milestone in the government’s ongoing efforts to expand access to healthcare in rural communities.
Once operational, the facility is expected to serve more than 2 000 villagers, significantly reducing the distance they currently travel to seek medical attention. The project, implemented through a partnership between the government and development agencies, is part of broader national efforts to achieve equitable healthcare access in line with Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1).
Local villagers have welcomed the development, describing it as a relief, particularly for women, who often bear the brunt of family healthcare responsibilities.
“This clinic is strategically positioned and will reduce the distance currently travelled by people from this ward to the next clinic. This is a good initiative for our village and district at large and we are appreciative.
“Usually women are the most burdened when it comes to health services as they look after the whole family, shorter distance is a bigger relief for them as transport is a challenge and most of the time people resort to walking.
“Healthcare delivery is anchored as one of the pillars that drive economic development according to the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) and the Second Republic’s Vision 2030 so this is a welcome developlment that speaks to the country’s aspirations,” community members said.
Traditional leaders echoed the community’s gratitude, saying the clinic will help curb preventable deaths by providing timely medical attention.
“This facility will be busy serving this large population. It will be helpful as people will not have to travel long distances to clinics and hospitals. We are happy that once this clinic starts working we will see less of avoidable deaths as people will be getting help from nearby and quickly get treatment,” Chief Banga said.
Increasing access to health services for all citizens is central to universal health coverage, particularly for the most vulnerable and marginalised people in communities.
