Online Reporter
Bokang Tlou, [email protected]
The Tshitatshawa community in Tsholotsho North was on Friday filled with joy and gratitude as villagers gathered in large numbers for the official commissioning of the Tshitatshawa Clinic.
Construction of the health facility, which began in 1995, finally saw its official opening, promising to improve access to healthcare in the rural area.
The community largely credits the Campfire initiative and local residents for its completion.
The commissioning ceremony was graced by the Minister of State for Matabeleland North Province and Devolution Affairs Richard Moyo, and officiated by Mr Tapiwa Enock Zivovoyi, a director in the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, alongside several local councillors and community leaders.
Mr Zivovoyi emphasised the importance of devolution in bringing essential services closer to the people, particularly in under-served rural communities.
“The opening of this clinic is a clear example of how the Government’s devolution agenda is transforming lives. No one should walk long distances for healthcare,” he stated.
“We thank the community for its power in working together, and the Campfire and children of Tsholotsho in the diaspora for such great work.”
Mr Zivovoyi urged the community to push for the addition of a maternity ward, noting that this is the only clinic in the immediate vicinity, with many other clinics located far away.
The event drew a large crowd, with elderly women and men, young mothers carrying infants, and youths from the surrounding villages coming to witness the milestone.
Many expressed their happiness, stating that the clinic would bring much-needed relief to children and the elderly, who previously had to travel long distances for medical attention.
Local Councillor, Jaz Sibanda of Ward 8, echoed similar sentiments, thanking the Government and stakeholders for their commitment to health development in Tsholotsho.
“The clinic was started in 1995 but progress was hampered by financial problems, delaying its operation. It eventually started functioning in 2017, with the official opening now in 2025,” he explained.
“I would like to thank the local people and the Campfire for their great work, as they played a big role in developing the clinic.”
Speaking to Chronicle, an elderly resident, Getrude Sibanda, expressed her immense excitement about the ceremony. “I am overjoyed because now we are going to get cured near our homes, unlike back then where we would go for long distances to seek medical attention,” she said.
Ms Ntombinkulu Nkomo, a young mother, also shared her delight at the clinic’s commissioning.
“We are happy about the clinic as it is going to cut our journey short and allow us to bring children without worrying about the long distances,” she said, adding, “Now we no longer have to travel to Tsholotsho Hospital, which is costly.”
With services expected to begin immediately, the Tshitatshawa Clinic is set to offer primary healthcare and emergency care, significantly improving the quality of life for residents in the area.
Tshitatshawa Clinic, located in Tsholotsho, Matabeleland North, commenced construction in 1995 and became operational in 2017. The 2025 event marks its official commissioning, giving thanks to the Campfire initiative and the community for their enduring efforts.
