Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya-Beitbridge Bureau
For years, villagers in Malibeng, a remote community in Beitbridge West, have endured long, arduous journeys — often on foot or donkey-drawn cart — for basic medical care.
The nearest clinic is more than 20 kilometres away, and for expectant mothers or the elderly, that distance can be the difference between life and death.
But that is about to change.
In a major boost for the community, the Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) has broken ground on the construction of a new clinic in Malibeng, a development that promises to transform the lives of over 8 000 residents.
The initiative forms part of the AFZ’s broader community assistance drive and coincides with preparations for Zimbabwe Defence Forces Day.
It is being implemented through the AFZ Charity Fund and is expected to not only improve healthcare access, but also empower local youths through skills development.
“This is part of our many initiatives we are rolling out as we build towards the Zimbabwe Defence Forces Day,” said AFZ Commander, Air Marshal Jacob John Nzvede, during the ground-breaking ceremony. “We have identified a need and we are going to work together with the community and relevant partners to see through this project.
“Besides constructing this project, the community will benefit from the skills transfer initiative, with many youths — male and female — expected to learn building, electrical, plumbing and carpentry skills on the course of this project.”
A lifeline for the community
The new Malibeng Clinic is a timely intervention for a district whose healthcare infrastructure is under increasing pressure.
Beitbridge District Development Coordinator, Mrs Sikhangezile Mafu, said the area currently relies on just 20 rural clinics, six urban clinics and a single referral hospital to serve its growing population.
For villagers like Mrs Unalina Moyo, the clinic represents a personal relief.
“As a woman, we are looking at reduced walking distances for most villagers who have been travelling for over 20km to access maternal and related health services,” said Mrs Unalina Moyo.
Already, 14 youths from the surrounding seven villages have been engaged to assist with construction, gaining valuable technical know-how in the process.
The project aligns with President Mnangagwa’s “leaving no one and no place behind” mantra and the broader national vision of inclusive, people-centred development.
Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, praised the AFZ’s commitment, describing the clinic as an example of the “brick-by-brick” model of rural transformation.
“It is only us who can transform our areas and hence we need all hands on the deck,” he said.
“We must involve traditional leaders and many development agencies so that we pull in one direction.
“At the same time, I encourage roads authorities in this region to make sure they fix, maintain and construct a good road network to complement such high-impact development projects.”
Beitbridge West legislator, Thusani Ndou, who played a role in initiating the partnership with the AFZ, said the project is a milestone achievement for the constituency.
“This project is a significant milestone that will improve healthcare services in our community,” he said.
“The new clinic will significantly enhance healthcare delivery in the area, reducing the need for residents to travel long distances for medical care.
“This project is a testament to the positive impact of collaborative efforts between the Government and other stakeholders in improving the lives of our people.”
Ward 9 Councillor, Mr Thando Ndlovu, echoed the sentiments, saying the community was optimistic that the clinic would be completed swiftly, thanks to the AFZ’s structured timelines and dedication.
As construction begins in earnest, the excitement among locals is palpable, not just for the improved access to medical care, but for the opportunities the project is already generating.
“It is pleasing to note that with the training we are getting throughout the course of the construction, most of us will be able to use these skills to sustain our lives,” said Mr Vusumuzi Ndlovu, a local involved in the project.
“So far, 14 youths have been engaged to help with building the clinic from our seven villages and this is a welcome development.”
