Story by Providence Maraneli
THE Second Republic’s drive towards universal health coverage continues to make strides in previously underserved areas, with the construction of a new mother’s shelter underway at Esibombvu Clinic in Umzingwane.
The facility is expected to play a crucial role in reducing maternal and neonatal complications in the rural district, highlighting the government’s ongoing commitment to accessible and equitable healthcare for all.
The clinic will bring healthcare services closer to the people.
“Previously, we utilised a staff as a makeshift Mother’s Waiting Home. While we did our best to provide support to expectant mothers. It was not suitable for the needs of our house community. This led to many home deliveries, which can be risky without proper medical assistance and support. Baby deliveries and administration of drugs to stable patients were all done in the limited clinical section, thereby compromising privacy,” Umzingwane CEO, Mrs Sithembiso Sibanda said.
The clinic is expected to service more than five thousand villagers, who for a long time, have been travelling to Esigodini, which is more than 20kilometres away.
“It was difficult here, especially for the pregnant mothers, because they needed to go to Esigodini to deliver,” a community member said.
“Now with the equipment we are seeing here, we feel that it is going to be easy and there will be no complications,” a villager said.
“We are happy now that we have an outpatient here; it is going to help us,” a beneficiary said.
The development, a testament to the power of collaboration between government, development partners and the community, has also seen more than 100 households accessing portable water.
“This is our small contribution to the community, we saw it prudent that women and children should access healthcare services closer to their community, and this also included water,” World Vision Regional Manager, Mr Shepherd Dlamini said.
Matabeleland South has witnessed a considerable number of healthcare facilities that have been constructed in recent years, which include Tshabili, Dumba and Shale.
“Today marks a new chapter in healthcare delivery, with a modern facility that will improve patient care and provide a dignified environment for consultations,” the Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Albert Nguluvhe said.
The Second Republic is on a drive to transform the health sector, with various clinics being constructed around the country.
