SIX health-related projects have been completed in Chipinge district courtesy of the government’s devolution programme. The completion of the staff quarters at Chipangayi Clinic in Chipinge, constructed using devolution funds has been welcomed by the staff and the local community as a key development in enhancing infrastructure at the facility. “We want to thank the government for the Devolution Funds. Initially, we were facing staff accommodation challenges but now we are living comfortably in modern structures. Our clinic is also in good shape, renovated and now offering quality services to over 7 000 people who are within our catchment area,” said a nurse, Tafadzwa Njekete.

“As women, we suffered the most especially during pregnancy when we needed access to health services. At times, mothers would deliver at home so we appreciate this effort by the government,” said a community member.Another said, “We are grateful for the government’s intervention at this facility. As the local community, we are impressed by the rate of development here considering that our nurses were staying in old buildings. We are also getting top-notch services and with continued support, there is room for more.” Chipinge Rural District Council Human Resources and Administration Officer, Mr Takesure Madhuveko gave an insight into the number of projects that have been implemented through devolution in the district.

“We have so far implemented at least six health-related projects in the district. This has helped in improved health delivery and access, reducing the distances which people walk to the nearest health centres. Above all, our staff conditions have improved because the projects have also involved the construction of staff shelters,” he said. The government is responding to the funding gaps being faced by local authorities through the devolutions programme.