MASIKANA - Villagers here have called on Marondera Rural District Council, to complete Mafuramhepo clinic, which was initiated by Kushanda Projects, but was abandoned mid-way in 1992, under unexplained circumstances. Villagers said several women had given birth in the bush as they struggled to the nearest Dhirihori clinic, 10 kilometres away. If completed, the clinic will serve villagers in wards 6 and 19 and nearby settlements.
It is difficult to get to Dhirihori, as there is no public transport serving the Masikana-Dhirihori route. Founder of the Kushanda Projects, John Conrad, proposed the project after realising villagers were walking long distances.
Construction was abandoned when the project was near completion. Roof, ceiling, windows, doors, staff quarters, septic tank, borehole and other essentials were in place when the NGO ceased operations. Since then, no one has shown interest to complete the initiative of the NGO, said Theresa Nhema, a senior villager.
An elderly local, Peter Dzimbahwe, has since turned the clinic into a family residence. The structure has deteriorated as he is using the firewood for cooking.
Villagers said they approached a councillor for ward 19, Samuel Machekanyanga, who has since presented their concerns to council. The villagers said they wanted the clinic to be completed so that they do not have to travel long distances to seek treatment.
The councillor could not be reached for comment, but villagers estimated that it may cost US$ 11 000 to finish off the clinic.
Post published in: News