Story by Mercy Bofu-Matinha
THE church continues to work with the government in improving livelihoods in various communities, with the people of Serima in Gutu being the latest beneficiaries after the Roman Catholic Church established a waiting mothers’ shelter at a local health facility.
The shelter, which is fully furnished, will accommodate 20 women in a development applauded by the community for reducing maternal mortality.
The project was established by the Roman Catholic Church’s development arm, Caritas Gweru Diocese.
“We are happy with this shelter which can accommodate 20 women. The previous shelter was very small, only accommodating five women. Now it means more women will be assisted here and the facility is very nice,” a community member said.
“What excited us more is that the facility is fully furnished with dining, kitchen, laundry, more bathrooms and furnished rooms,” added another.
Speaking after the commissioning of the waiting mothers’ shelter, Gweru Diocese Right Reverend, Bishop Rudolf Nyandoro said the church will continue working with the government in ensuring improved livelihoods of communities.
“As a church, our duty is to look after communities spiritually and physically. We work together with the government to improve our people’s lives. This facility was put up to safeguard the mothers and their babies. It will also contribute to the promotion of institutional deliveries as well as reducing maternal and infant mortality rate.”
Community leaders paid tribute to the government for partnering organisations that prioritise development.
“This partnership between the government and the Roman Catholic Church has transformed the lives of people in this area. Apart from this mother’s shelter, we have seen nearly 30 solarised boreholes being drilled and rehabilitated. It means many are now doing various agriculture initiatives,” said Chief Serima.
Gutu West Constituency Coordinator Cde Martin Nyikayaramba added, “When we witness such developments in our rural areas, it clearly indicates that our country’s Vision 2030 aspirations are achievable. It is now our duty as a community to look after such Infrastructure such that it serves the next generation.”
Caritas Organisation is implementing several programmes in Gutu West, including the sinking of boreholes, poultry and livestock projects.
