Online Reporter
Mukudzei Chingwere in Matabeleland North
VICE PRESIDENT Dr Constantino Chiwenga says Government departments working on the construction of Lupane Provincial Hospital should consider a phased approach to speed up the project.
The provincial hospital has been under construction for over 20 years due to funding challenges, hence the VP’s counsel.
A phased project completion approach, the Vice President said, could see the hospital starting to offer services such as outpatient care and casualty care, with other essential services coming on stream progressively.
The VP’s visit is part of a broader assessment of economic projects across the country, which this week has taken him to Matabeleland North.
During his tour on Thursday, VP Chiwenga also visited the Gwayi-Shangani Dam and the Dollar Block Wildlife Sanctuary.
At the wildlife sanctuary, he commended efforts being made in wildlife preservation by the Mavros family, the local investors in partnership with their Indonesian counterparts.
Furthermore, the Vice President expressed optimism regarding the ongoing construction of the Gwayi-Shangani Dam, emphasising its crucial role in driving economic development.
He noted that the project is on schedule for completion by next year, in line with government timelines.
This approach prioritises the completion of the Gwayi-Shangani and Kunzvi dams before resuming other projects.
“It is disheartening to see that, despite the essential role this facility is meant to play in our community, it remains incomplete. I recommend that it be opened in phases so that it quickly starts working,” said VP Chiwenga.
“The completion of this hospital is long overdue, having started off in 2004. Indeed, all stakeholders should come together to address this pressing issue. The people of Matabeleland North deserve access to quality healthcare, and the absence of a Provincial Hospital has already impacted many lives.
“It is imperative that we expedite the financial processes that have delayed the completion of this hospital. We cannot afford to let bureaucracy stand in the way of providing essential health services to our communities.
“Healthcare is a right, not a privilege, and it is our duty to ensure that the people of Matabeleland North have the facilities they need to live healthy lives in the spirit of universal health access.”
He said Dollar Block Wildlife Sanctuary’s unwavering commitment to restoring wildlife preservation demonstrates the potential of collaboration in conserving the country’s natural heritage.
“This endeavour not only plays a crucial role in restoring wildlife populations but also ensures the protection of our rich and diverse ecosystems for future generations,” said VP Chiwenga. “Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreements (BIPPA) are not just ink on paper; they serve as a framework for fostering long-term investment, safeguarding our biodiversity, and enhancing economic opportunities through eco-tourism.”
He elaborated on how the Gwayi-Shangani Dam will support agro-processing zones, manufacturing hubs, and energy-linked industries.
“The progress we see here is encouraging,” said VP Chiwenga. “The Gwayi-Shangani Dam is not just a structure; it represents a transformative initiative that will catalyse economic growth in this area.
“The dam is a multi-faceted development tool, integral to various sectors. Our approach mandates that every dam project incorporates essential elements such as irrigation development, provision of potable water, fisheries, mini-hydroelectricity facilities, and wastewater management.
“This project will create a greenbelt extending from here to the Bulawayo Metropolitan Province, enhancing agricultural productivity and generating sustainable livelihoods for local communities.
“We aim to ensure that each dam provides a comprehensive package to communities, propelling us toward a prosperous and empowered upper middle-income society.”
