Matobo villagers join hands to build a clinic
Thubelihle Dube
The community of Sontala in ward 12 of Kezi, Matobo District in Matabeleland South has come together and pooled resources to build a clinic for the area.
The clinic’s proposed site is conveniently placed right at the centre of the Ward to accommodate members of the Sontala Community as well as other villagers from neighbouring wards. Since time immemorial, the Sontala Community has been outsourcing its health care to other areas such as Mbembeswana , Kezi and Maphisa.
A youth member of the community, Sinanisiwe Tshabangu expressed relief as she highlighted the difficulties villagers have had to go through in their quest to access health care.
“The long distances coupled with lack of transport is of a great disadvantage to our community members as they travel long distances ranging from ten to more than twenty kilometres in search of health facilities.”
Village elder, Last Nyathi also decried the effects of the long distances saying they worsen conditions and have led to some deaths due to delayed medical attention.
“Because of these long distances and the prevailing transport blues, emergencies were not treated as they should thereby leading to complications and deaths in some cases. This is the reason why the community is so happy about the new development. Everyone is geared to work to bring this project to fruition. We are so united.”
However, the community members’ efforts alone may not be adequate to complete the much needed clinic. More funding is required to turn the community dream to a reality. Mr Enerst Ncube, the ward Councilor is appealing to donors to help fund the project.
“What is needed now is support from giving hands. As a community, we have managed to put together some building materials but they are not enough to complete our envisaged structure .Assistance is needed in terms of funds and building material. That kind of assistance would be greatly appreciated,” said Councilor Ncube.[24/06, 17:21] Gracious W29 Nkayi: Rains ignite optimism in Kezi
