Mkoba 18 Clinic project back on track after planning approval

A LONG-AWAITED healthcare project in Ward 16 is finally moving forward after the City of Gweru approved amendments to the ward’s master plan, paving the way for the construction of a clinic in Mkoba 18.

The project, which had stalled due to planning constraints, is expected to provide much-needed healthcare services to residents of Mkoba 18, Mkoba 20, Paradise and Woodlands.

Ward 16 Councillor Philemon Mawere, confirmed that the clinic will be built in Mkoba 18 following the resolution of the planning impasse.

“The City of Gweru’s Ward 16 clinic project has received a significant boost following the approval of amendments to the ward’s master plan, paving the way for construction to begin,” he said.

Clr Mawere revealed that the project had initially stalled because the land earmarked for the clinic had been designated as an off-sale beer hall under the previous planning framework.

“With the planning issue now resolved, the path has been cleared for construction to commence later this year. A ground-breaking ceremony will be held to officially mark the start of the project,” he said.

He added that the new facility will ease pressure on existing health institutions and improve access to primary healthcare services.

“The project marks a major development milestone for Ward 16 and reflects a strong commitment to improving community health and dignity in Gweru,” said Clr Mawere.

Residents have welcomed the development, describing it as long overdue given the rapid growth of the city.

Gweru Residents Trust acting chairperson Mr Obvious Gonamombe said expanding health infrastructure must go hand in hand with population growth.

“As residents, we commend the City fathers for spearheading the construction of the Mkoba 18 clinic. Gweru is developing very fast, and service provision must keep pace with this growth,” he said.

Mr Gonamombe noted that a local clinic will reduce the burden on residents, who at present travel long distances to access services at Mkoba Polyclinic.

“This is particularly significant for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, expectant mothers and those living with chronic conditions, who often face challenges accessing healthcare,” he said.

Mrs Thelma Chakai echoed the sentiments, saying the new clinic will help decongest nearby facilities and improve service delivery.

“As the town grows, a clinic is essential infrastructure to support the increasing population’s healthcare needs. Access to local healthcare enhances residents’ overall quality of life, supporting their well-being and productivity,” she said.

Residents in Mkoba 18 and surrounding suburbs say the absence of a public health clinic has posed serious challenges, especially for the elderly, expectant mothers and the chronically ill, who must travel considerable distances for basic medical services.

The construction of the clinic is expected to significantly improve access to primary healthcare and strengthen service delivery in one of Gweru’s fastest-growing residential areas.