Chronicle Editor
Sijabuliso Nyoni, Sunday News Reporter
FIVE deportees from Botswana who were quarantined at Matopos Research Hospitality Centre in Matobo District have tested positive for Covid-19, it has been confirmed.
The five have been transferred to Matopo Rural Hospital for isolation. Matobo District Development Co-ordinator Mr Obey Innocent Chaputsa has since written a letter to various stakeholders including non-governmental organisations, appealing for donations to look after the isolated patients.
“As you might be aware, as a district, we have our quarantine centre at Matopos Research Hospitality Centre where we are housing deportees from Botswana.
“It is sad to note that we have recorded five Covid-19 positive cases in the last three days.
“As a result, we are mandated as per the guidelines to move the positive to our isolation centre which is Matopo Rural Hospital.
“It is against this background that I am writing to you seeking donations in terms of foodstuffs especially relish, personal protective equipment and fuel for logistical support for the isolation centre,” wrote Mr Chaputsa in a letter dated 9 July.
In a follow-up interview, Mr Chaputsa said so far, the local Member of Parliament, Cde Edgar Moyo, has donated food.
Matobo District like others in Matabeleland South have been at the forefront of receiving returnees and deportees from other countries.
The province is home to the country’s business borders Beitbridge and Plumtree.
Online Reporter