Bulawayo Breaks Ground For New Mental Health Support Centre

By Andile Vundla| 9 July 2026

Bulawayo is set to strengthen access to mental health and counselling services following the groundbreaking ceremony for the Franciscan Centre, a facility that will provide professional psychological, spiritual and emotional support to people facing various life challenges.

The centre, being developed by the Franciscan Missionaries of the Divine Motherhood at Mater Dei Hospital, is expected to offer counselling and other support services aimed at improving mental wellbeing, strengthening families and assisting communities affected by issues such as substance abuse, trauma and emotional distress.

Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday, Bulawayo Mayor Councillor David Coltart described the project as a timely investment, saying demand for mental health and counselling services continues to grow.

“We are living in a society where many people need psychological and spiritual support. Professional counselling services are not an option; they are a necessity for individuals, families and communities,” said Coltart.

He said increasing cases of drug and substance abuse, particularly among young people, have highlighted the need for accessible support services before affected individuals reach crisis point.

The mayor added that the centre would provide hope for vulnerable people while complementing existing health services in the city.

Mayor Coltart also pledged the City of Bulawayo’s support towards the project’s development and said the local authority was prepared to assist where possible, including mobilising support for the initiative.

Archbishop Alex Thomas said the Franciscan Centre would become more than a physical structure, serving as a place of prayer, healing, reconciliation and community building.

He stated that the facility would promote peace, dialogue and care for others while providing a welcoming environment where people from all backgrounds could find spiritual and emotional support.

Archbishop Thomas added that the project reflects the Franciscan mission of serving communities through compassion, fraternity and care for creation, expressing hope that the centre would benefit generations to come.

Construction of the Franciscan Centre marks the beginning of what church leaders hope will become a place that promotes peace, spiritual renewal and community engagement in Bulawayo.