Communities in remote parts of Binga District are increasingly being cut off from essential services after heavy rains left already fragile roads in a deteriorated state, with traditional leader Chief Dobola warning that access to healthcare is now under threat.
In an interview, Chief Dobola said worsening road conditions, particularly in areas such as Mabobolo, have made travel extremely difficult, with vehicles frequently breaking down on damaged terrain.
“Our roads are terribly bad, especially after these rains. We are struggling a lot and cars need to be repaired almost every day. You travel for two weeks and the suspension needs attention,” he said.
He said some communities are now effectively inaccessible.
“This hits more in Mabobolo, vehicles cannot reach that area,” he said.
The deteriorating infrastructure has raised concern over access to emergency medical services, with fears that ambulances may be unable to reach patients in time.
“When it comes to health services, I’m not sure that this time the ambulances will be able to reach Mabobolo unless the road is fixed,” he said. “It’s our request that the road be fixed so that ambulances and other vehicles are able to reach that area.”
Binga District, one of Matabeleland North Province’s most marginalised districts, has long struggled with poor infrastructure, including weak road networks and limited health facilities. During the rainy season, gravel roads often become impassable, isolating communities and disrupting access to clinics, schools and markets.
Chief Dobola said the shortage of health facilities in the area is worsening the crisis, forcing residents to travel long distances under difficult conditions to seek medical care.
“I need to be assisted, the roads and clinics are very few within my community,” he said.
He also called for urgent rehabilitation of key infrastructure such as the Nakapande River bridge, which he said is vital for linking communities and enabling the movement of people and goods.
Residents in Binga have repeatedly raised concerns over poor infrastructure, saying it not only limits access to social services but also undermines livelihoods in rural communities that depend on trade and mobility.
Chief Dobola urged authorities to prioritise the rehabilitation of roads, bridges and health facilities, saying improved access could ease the daily challenges faced by residents.
“It is our request that the road be fixed so that ambulances and other vehicles are able to reach our people,” he said.