By Vumani Mthiyane
The Ministry of Health and Child Care has availed $10 million towards the construction of two new hospitals in Umzingwane and Bulilima districts under the Public Sector Investment Programme (PSIP).
Esigodini hospital which was constructed 55 years ago was condemned by the government in 2003 while Bulilima never had a hospital.
This positive development comes at a time when the country’s health sector is facing acute challenges.
Once complete, these hospitals will improve the health delivery system in the two districts located in of the country`s impoverished provinces.
Presenting a report during the first Provincial Development Committee meeting for 2019 held in Gwanda yesterday, Social Services and Poverty Reduction chairperson, Totangirepi Tirivavi revealed that the land was donated by private players and the sites have been approved by the ministry of health.
“I can confirm that the government has allocated $5 million each to Umzingwane and Bulilima districts towards the construction of new hospitals. Currently, the people of Bulilima resort to Plumtree and Mangwe district hospitals for treatment.
“However, the construction of these hospitals will alleviate their health problems as they have been yearning for better health centres,” said Tirivavi.
Umzingwane District Administrator, Peter Mahlathini said the project will go a long way in improving the health challenges currently faced by the people of Umzingwane.
Once complete, Umzingwane hospital will cater to more than 35 000 people drawn from 21 wards.
Contacted for comment, Umzingwane Member of Parliament, Retired Brigadier General, Levi Mayihlome said, “Land for the hospital was donated and the transfer is being processed. However, progress is very slow for my pace. We are pushing all concerned stakeholders to speed up things.”
