Villagers report that the roof, ceiling, windows, doors, staff quarters, septic tank, borehole and other essentials were all in place when all construction activities ceased without any explanation.
Villagers claim that since then, no one in authority has shown any interest in completing the project and that several women have been forced to give birth, unaided, in the bush in their struggle to reach the Wedza clinic, situated some 10 km away.
Founder of the project, Matshalaga and the district council, initially started the project because villagers had no access to health services.
If the clinic is ever completed it has the potential to provide a vital service to the people of Siboza, Zvegona, Ndinaneni, Matshalanga and nearby settlements.
Villagers approached local councillor, Tooboy Moyo , who has taken their concerns to council. Councillor Moyo could not be reached for comment, but villagers have been told that it is estimated that an additional $15 000 is required to complete the clinic.
Contacted for comment Zvishavane – Runde legislator John Holder said: “ The structure is not lying idle and had not been abandoned, it has only been delayed. Concerted efforts are being made to complete it. For more information villagers should contact their local councillor or the council chairperson,†said Holder.
When approached for comment by this reporter, council Chairperson, Norman Sibanda assured him that the community’s problems will soon be over.
“I assure you that the problem will soon be a thing of the past. As I am speaking Zvishavane Community Share Ownership Trust (CSOT) have purchased and supplied the equipment to complete the interior of the clinic. Toilet facilities that have been a stumbling block are being rectified. I have no doubt that the clinic will be open anytime soon,†said Sibanda.
Sibanda, who is Mhondongori ward councillor, also took the opportunity to thank the local CSOT for intervening and constructing the toilet facilities and nurses quarters.
Only time will tell if the chairperson’s claims will materialise into a fully functioning clinic.
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