Online Reporter
Tendai Gukutikwa
Health Reporter
IN a major boost for healthcare delivery in Buhera, villagers in Ward 26 can now access medical services closer home following the recent commissioning of Chipondamidzi Clinic.
For years, villagers from Machidawe and Chipondamidzi, among other areas in Buhera South Constituency were forced to walk distances ranging from 12 to 20 kilometres to reach the nearest health centres, such as Mutepfe Clinic. The new facility brings an end to that ordeal, positioning healthcare services right at the heart of the community.
Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza, who officially commissioned the facility, said the clinic is a direct response to infrastructural needs that burden many rural communities, leaving them without the most basic services.
Minister Mugadza stressed that the construction of the clinic aligns with Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy (NDS1), which places access to quality healthcare at the centre of the nation’s development agenda.
Healthcare infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, remains a crucial pillar under NDS1, prioritising universal health coverage and the reduction of preventable deaths through access to quality services.
“I am happy that this clinic will restore dignity for the people of Buhera South Constituency. It will provide mothers, children, and the elderly a fighting chance in times of medical emergencies, unlike previously when they had to travel long distances to get to a health facility. Today, we are addressing years of walking long distances to access health services, distances that have claimed lives and deepened suffering,” said Minister Mugadza.
He added that the facility will significantly reduce transport challenges, especially for women, the elderly, and young children who often carry the burden of walking long distances to clinics during emergencies and pregnancy complications.
“This clinic is a direct response to the transport challenges that people here have faced for generations. Women, the elderly, and children, in particular, have suffered the most. Today, we bring them tangible and meaningful relief,” he said.
The construction of the clinic was a collaborative effort between Government, former Member of House of Assembly for Buhera South, Cde Joseph Chinotimba, and United Methodist Church.
Minister Mugadza commended this partnership, stating that the project is a model of how public-private and community-driven collaboration can yield life-changing results.
Minister Mugadza urged other communities across the province to remain hopeful and engaged, stating that development is now being driven from the ground up through devolution funds.
The facility’s commissioning was met with an outpouring of emotion and gratitude from the local community.
Mrs Lucia Marambanyika (72), said she never thought she would witness the day when her community would have its own clinic. Mr Brian Zvenyika (23), a local youth and community volunteer, said the clinic has restored hope for many.
