Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
A LONG-awaited clinic in Gwanda’s Spitzkop suburb is finally taking shape after two decades of delays, with construction now at roof level and completion expected by year-end.
The development is expected to ease pressure on the town’s overstretched health care services.
Spitzkop Clinic, whose construction stalled for years due to financial constraints, resumed in 2023 under the Government’s devolution programme. The Gwanda Municipality, in partnership with local businesses and development partners, has since been working to fast-track the project.
In an interview, Gwanda mayor Alderman Thulani Moyo said the new health facility will help decongest Phakama Clinic, which is the town’s only public clinic, and bring services closer to residents in one of Gwanda’s most populated areas.
“This project had stalled for a very long time. We initiated the Spitzkop Satellite Clinic to decongest Phakama Clinic, which can no longer adequately serve our growing population. Spitzkop has the highest concentration of residents in town, making it the most ideal location for a second clinic,” he said.
Alderman Moyo said the project briefly stopped again to allow the local authority to prioritise the construction of Phakama Primary School, but momentum has picked up following renewed support from the business community.
“We engaged local stakeholders and are now working with several partners, including the MP for Gwanda-Tshitaudze Constituency, Cde Fisani Moyo, Mr Charles Kunjani and Mr Lungisani Ncube. Their support has been instrumental in pushing this project forward,” he said.
With the building now at the roofing stage, council engineers are preparing for water and sewerage connections, ensuring the facility will be fully functional once completed.
Alderman Moyo said completing the clinic within the year aligns the project with the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), which prioritises improved healthcare infrastructure.
“Health care is a key pillar of NDS1. As the town continues to grow in population and housing developments, it’s our duty to ensure social amenities keep pace. The completion of Spitzkop Clinic is therefore a priority,” he said.
The mayor also appealed to more businesspeople and stakeholders to support local development initiatives, saying partnerships are crucial in accelerating service delivery.
For residents like Ms Sarah Tshuma from Spitzkop suburb, the clinic represents hope and long-awaited relief.
“It’s always a challenge to visit the clinic because of the long distance and poor transport options. Phakama Clinic is usually congested, and we spend hours in queues,” she said.
“Having a clinic nearby will be a huge relief. We’ve seen real progress in recent months, and we’re hopeful it will be completed soon.”
@DubeMatutu
