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Takunda Maodza Manicaland Bureau Chief
THE City of Mutare last week received a mobile clinic for use in the high-density suburb of Gimboki from Miracle Mission Trust in a development expected to see provision of primary healthcare to nearly 6 000 residents. Miracle Mission Trust is a non-profit organisation headquartered in Harare. The mobile clinic was officially handed over to council by Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs Dr Ellen Gwaradzimba.

“It is with great excitement and a sense of achievement that I stand before you to present to you your new mobile Gimboki Clinic,” said Minister Gwaradzimba. “The Gimboki area is made up of about 5 600 households which require service delivery in terms of water, sanitation and health care facilities.

“I am happy to note that a health care facility is now in place. This is a partnership between Miracle Mission Trust, Government and City of Mutare.”

Residents of Gimboki were travelling long distances for medical attention.

“Many have travelled long distances to as far as Dora, Dangamvura and the city centre in search of primary health care, a situation which motivated us as a caring Government to mobilise for the clinic in the area,” said Minister Gwaradzimba.

“Though the master plan for Gimboki is still under consideration by the Ministry of Local Government, Public Works and National Housing, it must be stressed that because of the health concerns and disease risks that exist in Gimboki, Government, our partners and City of Mutare found it prudent to come up with a tripartite arrangement for a mobile clinic in Gimboki.”

Last year, Gimboki suffered an outbreak of cholera.

“During last year’s cholera outbreak, five of the seven cases recorded by Mutare City came from the Gimboki area and council could not continue to turn a blind eye to the health needs of the Gimboki community,” said Minister Gwaradzimba.

“Sanitation and provision of sewer and water, however, remain outstanding and of paramount importance if we are to support this noble initiative by Mutare City and Miracle Mission of reducing the disease burden to the City of Mutare residents.”

Mutare City Council has eight clinics that offer primary health care and maternity services to residents. The Gimboki mobile clinic brings the number to nine.