The commissioning of Mbuya Esther Memorial Clinic in Chimanimani District is expected to ease access to primary healthcare for rural communities that previously travelled more than 15 kilometres to reach the nearest health facility.
In a statement, yesterday, Minister of State for Manicaland Province Christopher Mugaga, who officially commissioned the clinic recently, said the facility demonstrated the Second Republic’s commitment to improving healthcare access and advancing grassroots development in line with Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2).
“This new clinic shows the Second Republic’s commitment to bringing quality primary healthcare closer to our rural people, guided by Vision 2030 and National Development Strategy 2,” said Mugaga.
He commended President Emmerson Mnangagwa for prioritising community development, saying the new facility reflected efforts to ensure that rural communities benefit from essential public services.
“We applaud His Excellency President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa for prioritising grassroots development, as we strive to ensure no-one and no-place is left behind,” he said.
The clinic is also a tribute to the late Mbuya Esther Mushanguri, a respected community figure remembered for her compassion and selfless service to others.
Mugaga said the facility would address longstanding challenges faced by residents who had to travel considerable distances to access medical attention, particularly pregnant women, young children and elderly people who often require timely healthcare services.
“The clinic stands as a lasting tribute to the late Mbuya Esther Mushanguri, a well-known community figure remembered for her compassion and selfless service,” he said.
He said the clinic’s establishment would help bring essential medical services closer to residents, reducing the burden of travelling long distances to obtain treatment.
However, Mugaga emphasised that the availability of infrastructure alone was not enough; calling on the relevant authorities to ensure the clinic operates effectively and provides reliable services to the community.
“I urge the Chimanimani Rural District Council and health authorities to ensure this facility is fully staffed and well-stocked with medicines,” he said.
He also called on community members, traditional leaders and healthcare workers to protect the facility and maintain professional standards in the delivery of medical services.
“I further encourage communities, traditional leaders and medical personnel to safeguard this vital asset and deliver compassionate, professional care to all who seek treatment,” said Mugaga.
The commissioning added to the efforts of strengthen rural healthcare delivery by improving access to essential services and supporting inclusive development in line with the country’s long-term development objectives.
