Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
GOVERNMENT efforts to rehabilitate the Gwanda Old People’s Home are now underway, to significantly enhance the living conditions for the elderly residents, who have been enduring substandard conditions.
A solar-powered borehole has been installed, addressing the institution’s water supply challenges. The home has also received new beds, and the walls have been freshly repainted. New doors have been purchased, and plans are being made to improve the sewer reticulation system.
The rehabilitation efforts were prompted by a recommendation from the Thematic Committee on Human Rights, concerning the rights of the elderly. After visiting the home, the committee had called for its closure due to the poor living standards there.
In response, stakeholders from Matabeleland South, led by the Department of Social Development, rolled out a rehabilitation plan for the facility. Gwanda Old People’s Home, which houses nine people, serves all seven districts of the province.
Water challenges had previously hindered the sustainability of income-generating projects at the institution. Matabeleland South provincial social welfare officer, Mr Criswell Nyakudya, said various stakeholders had stepped in to improve the state of the home.
“The home plays a vital role in serving all seven districts of the province. One of the most pressing issues we addressed was the water supply, and we have now facilitated the drilling of a solar-powered borehole to ensure a reliable water supply for the home,” he said.
Mr Nyakudya said the compound had been cleared to make way for new projects, including horticulture and small livestock production.
Each resident has received a new bed, while efforts to fix the sewer reticulation system are ongoing.
“There’s still more work to be done, but I’m pleased that so many stakeholders are coming on board. With an improved water supply, we will introduce income-generating projects, which will help the home become more self-sustaining,” said Mr Nyakudya.
Gwanda mayor, Alderman Thulani Moyo, said the council is also assisting in mobilising resources for the rehabilitation of the home. The local authority has since engaged local businesses to contribute to the cause.
“Over the years, the focus has been on providing food donations, but the infrastructure has been neglected. We’re now working to change that. Other necessary improvements include installing a ceiling and tiling the floors. As a council, we will ensure that the sewer reticulation is properly addressed, among other interventions,” Alderman Moyo said.
Alderman Moyo said the Gwanda Old People’s Home plays a crucial role in the community, which is why the municipality had allocated land specifically for its operation. He called on the business community and other stakeholders to join efforts in supporting the rehabilitation project.
“We were deeply concerned when we heard that there had been a recommendation to close the home. That’s why we’ve mobilised resources and engaged the business community to help improve the living conditions of the elderly residents,” said Alderman Moyo.
