Online Reporter
Freedom Mupanedemo, Zimpapers Writer
THE construction of Toendepi Polyclinic in Vuto area, Shurugwi District, Midlands Province, is nearing completion, bringing renewed hope to over 2 000 villagers who will soon have access to quality and affordable healthcare services close to home.
The project, a collaborative effort between the Government and Tongogara Rural District Council, is part of ongoing national efforts to improve access to health services in rural areas and reduce the burden of long-distance travel for medical attention.
Healthcare development remains a key pillar of the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) and Vision 2030, both of which emphasise equitable access to essential services as a foundation for sustainable economic growth and human development.
Local leaders and community members have welcomed the new facility, describing it as a game-changer for their community.
Chief Banga, who recently toured the site, said the polyclinic will help reduce preventable deaths and improve the overall well-being of villagers once operational.
“This facility will be kept busy serving a large population. It will be very beneficial because locals will no longer need to travel long distances to access clinics or hospitals,” he said.
“With the clinic up and running, we expect to see a decline in preventable deaths as residents receive timely medical care within their community.”
Villagers expressed gratitude to the Government for spearheading the development, noting that they previously had to travel over 12 kilometres to the nearest health centre.
Ms Gertrude Nyambo, a local villager, said the polyclinic’s strategic location will particularly benefit women, who often shoulder the responsibility of caring for families.
“Women are disproportionately affected by limited healthcare access. Having a clinic nearby will be a huge relief, especially given transport challenges that often force us to walk long distances to seek treatment,” she said.
Once completed, Toendepi Polyclinic is expected to provide a full range of services — including maternal and child health, outpatient care and disease prevention programmes — aligning with the country’s goal of achieving universal health coverage.
