Staff Reporter
Seventeen health institutions in Mount Darwin have received critical support from Senator Dr. James Makamba’s health facilities initiative, which aims to complement government`s efforts in strengthening healthcare delivery to the country`s citizens.
On Saturday, seven more clinics in the area became the latest beneficiaries of the programme, receiving medical consumables and cash donations valued at nearly US$20,000. This marks another milestone in the initiative, which was launched on January 1 this year with the goal of assisting 28 health institutions across the senatorial constituency.
The initiative has been widely praised by various stakeholders, including traditional leaders, government officials, war veterans, and members of the ruling party, who highlighted the importance of community-driven development.
Mount Darwin War Veterans Chairman, Cde Andrew Chikukwa, underscored the need for collective responsibility in maintaining healthcare infrastructure.
“I encourage us to unite and join hands with our President in supporting this programme that was introduced by our Senator. What is being done encourages unity of purpose. Self-reliance is key. If a roofing sheet is damaged at a clinic, let’s repair it and not just wait for government intervention,” he said.
Traditional leaders also expressed their appreciation for the initiative, with Chief Madziwa noting the positive impact on local healthcare services.
“I am very happy that our Senator has visited us. This development initiative brings progress to our community. The ruling party has always uplifted us, and we are grateful to see such tangible improvements,” he noted.
Mount Darwin District Development Coordinator, White Nkoma, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that the programme aligns with the government’s broader vision for national development.
“Senator Makamba’s efforts are directly supporting our clinics and communities, ensuring they receive essential resources. He is reminding us that a country is built by its people, and his contributions are reinforcing the government’s mandate to improve healthcare services,” said Nkoma.
Senator Makamba, reflecting on the motivation behind his initiative, reiterated that a healthy nation is the foundation for economic and social progress.
“The President has made it clear that Zimbabwe should become an upper-middle-income society by 2030. A healthy population is central to achieving this vision. If people are unwell, they cannot work, students struggle to learn, and we fall behind in an increasingly competitive world. My drive is to contribute to building a healthier nation,” said Makamba.
The seven latest clinics to benefit from the initiative are Bvuma, Mupfure, Chibuli, Tsakare, Kandeya, Mutwa, and Matope, with more health institutions expected to receive support in the coming months.
As the programme continues, it reinforces the power of community-driven solutions in advancing national healthcare goals, ensuring that essential services reach those in need.
