Beitbridge, Zimbabwe – The Second Republic’s commitment to universal health coverage is taking tangible form in previously marginalised areas, with the completion of a new clinic in Beitbridge funded through devolution resources. The development aims to bring essential healthcare services closer to border communities long burdened by limited access to medical care.
The National AIDS Council (NAC) has identified illegal border crossings at Dite, Tshaswingo, and Tshabili as major hotspots for HIV infections and teenage pregnancies, largely linked to illicit night-time activities in the area. In response, the government, in partnership with development agencies, mobilised resources to construct the new clinic, which is expected to improve health outcomes for residents and transient populations alike.
“This is a blessing. We used to walk more than 30 kilometres to reach health services. Now, with this clinic in our community, access has become much easier,” said a local resident who has benefited from the new facility.
Another community member, who previously assisted women with conception matters in the area, described the personal risks involved in performing health-related tasks without proper facilities. “I was in charge of helping women conceive in our community, and it was risky. But now, I am relieved knowing there is a proper clinic here,” she said.
Parents in the community echoed similar sentiments, noting the alarming rise in teenage pregnancies driven by unsupervised social gatherings. “As you know, our children now attend parties where early pregnancies are becoming common, but we feel with this clinic, they will have access to healthcare services even if they contract HIV,” a concerned parent said.
Devolution Funds Deliver Healthcare Relief to Beitbridge Border Communities
The Tshabili Clinic is part of a broader national strategy to curb the spread of HIV and reduce teenage pregnancies by bringing healthcare closer to the people. By providing services within walking distance, the initiative ensures that residents do not have to travel long distances for medical attention.
“This clinic is an example of how collaboration can deliver real development on the ground,” said Cde Oscar Chiromo, Chairperson of the Beitbridge Rural District Council.
The project was financed using devolution funds, highlighting the government’s commitment to inclusive, locally-driven development. “We used Devolution funds to finish this clinic, and it has transformed the health system in this area,” said Mr Peter Ncube, CEO of the Beitbridge Rural District Council.
Senator Tambudzani Mohadi of Beitbridge echoed the positive impact of the clinic. “It gives me immense joy to witness this kind of development. It speaks to the government’s inclusive development agenda and prioritisation of rural communities,” he said.
International partners also played a key role in the project. Thomas Kalasami, a representative from the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), highlighted the importance of healthcare access for border populations. “This is our small way of supporting the community, considering that many migrants pass through this area. Ensuring they have access to health services is vital,” he said.
The completion of Tshabili Clinic reinforces the government’s policy that communities should not travel more than 10 kilometres to access basic healthcare. Honourable Albert Nguluvhe, Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution, placed the initiative in the context of national development goals.
“The completion of this facility is not an isolated success but part of a larger national vision. It reflects our determination to realise Vision 2030, which seeks to transform Zimbabwe into an Upper Middle-Income Economy. Under the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), and as we now prepare for NDS2, the Government has made health, education, water, sanitation, and infrastructure the cornerstones of development. This clinic, therefore, is not merely a local gain; it is a brick in the national edifice of transformation,” he said.
The Tshabili Clinic will serve residents from Tshabili, Kayase, Madaulo, Mkwatshani, and Lathodi villages in Beitbridge East, providing a comprehensive range of healthcare services including HIV testing, maternal and child health services, and general outpatient care.
Residents and local leaders expressed optimism that the facility would improve health outcomes, reduce disease transmission, and empower the community through better access to essential medical services. By bringing healthcare closer to the people, the initiative exemplifies the government’s commitment to inclusive development and demonstrates how targeted investments in rural infrastructure can have a transformative impact on local communities.
Source- Zbc
