Bridging the healthcare gap: Matobo community builds own clinic

Written by on January 13, 2025

13 January 2025

By Andile Vundla

Residents of Ward 4 in Ratanyana which is known as Marko Ward, within the jurisdiction of Chief Nyangazonke in Matobo District, have taken healthcare into their own hands.

Faced with limited access to medical services, the community has embarked on an ambitious project to build a solar-powered clinic.

Construction is underway, with two blocks, including wet toilets, already completed. Mother’s shelter and incinerator will also be constructed while four staff cottages are planned for completion by August 2025, pending the availability of funds.

In an interview with SkyzMetro FM, Matobo District Ward 4 Councillor Mxolisi Ncube emphasized the importance of community involvement in addressing local challenges saying that this project demonstrates the power of community action in improving the lives of people and the assisting in the development of infrastructure in the area.

“We, the residents of Marko Ward, believe in the power of community empowerment. By actively participating in development initiatives, we are demonstrating our commitment to improving our own lives and the lives of our neighbors. With the necessary resources, we can effectively develop the infrastructure that will benefit our entire community,” Councillor Ncube stated.

This initiative was born out of the urgent need to reduce the long distances that community members, particularly the elderly and children, must travel to access medical care.

“The long distances our community members have to travel for healthcare are a major concern,” said Roy Mabhulane Gatsheni, a local resident. “We believe this clinic will significantly improve the health and well-being of our community by providing easy access to essential medical services.”

While the project has faced challenges, including funding constraints and the impact of the El Nino-induced drought, the community remains undeterred.

“These challenges forced us to divert resources towards other critical needs, such as purchasing livestock feed to mitigate the impact of the drought,” acknowledged Fidiena Ncube, another resident.

Despite these setbacks, the community remains committed to completing the clinic and ensuring improved healthcare access for all its members.


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