Story by Tichaona Kurewa
THE expansion of Zimbabwe’s universal health coverage is gaining momentum in Hwange District, where a newly constructed clinic is now ready for commissioning, marking a significant boost to healthcare access in remote communities.
The facility, known as the Breakfast Clinic, was built through a partnership involving Vexford Safaris, Hwange Rural District Council and the local community, reflecting growing private sector participation in the country’s health delivery system.
Located in an area bordering a national park, the clinic is expected to drastically reduce the distance residents travel to access essential medical services, in line with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 agenda for an affordable and efficient healthcare system.
Community members welcomed the development, citing long-standing challenges in accessing treatment.
“We are very happy about this clinic. Once it opens, it will greatly assist us, as we will no longer travel over 20 kilometres to access health services. We used to travel to Victoria Falls, Hwange, and sometimes Ndlovu, but that will now be a thing of the past,” a beneficiary said.
“This clinic will improve access to critical medication, including treatment for high blood pressure and ART services. Child mortality rates will certainly decrease with a clinic at our doorstep.”
The facility comprises male and female wards, a pharmacy, antenatal ward, sluice room, waiting area, duty room, consultation room and a treatment room.
Vexford Safaris Managing Director, Mr Tigere Muchenje, said construction has been completed, with only commissioning pending.
“We have completed the structure and procured the necessary equipment. What remains is for the relevant authorities to commission the facility and give us the green light to begin operations. We invested approximately US$350 000 into this project, covering both the main structure and staff houses,” he said.
Local authorities say the clinic will serve both resettlement areas and communities within the national park.
“We are grateful to our partners for supporting the construction of this clinic. It will also serve communities within the national park, as well as those in resettlement areas such as Kalala. Health services have now been brought closer to the people, reducing the burden of travelling long distances,” Hwange Rural District Council Ward 1 Councillor, Vulindlela Mhlanga said.
The development underscores the growing role of Public-Private Partnerships in delivering critical infrastructure, with authorities viewing such collaborations as key to improving service delivery and transforming livelihoods.
