Tongogara RDC builds five clinics

TONGOGARA Rural District Council in Shurugwi has finished constructing five clinics worth over $400 000, as the local authority intensifies its fight to enhance access to health facilities.

The five clinics, Gwamwa, Ruchanyu, Totonga, Jobolinko and Batanai, were constructed by the council with assistance of Senator Simbarashe Mumbengegwi, Anglo American platinum miner Unki Mine, Chinese Embassy and the Tongogara Community Share Ownership Scheme.

In an interview, Tongogara RDC chief executive, Mr Brian Rufasha, confirmed Ruchanyu Clinic was commissioned on May 28.

“We have finished constructing five clinics in the district and the move is meant to alleviate disease burden in the district,” he said. “It also means that villagers will no longer travel long distances to seek health services.

“The total cost of all the clinics is $445 000 and we are grateful to all institutions that funded the construction project and made it a success.

“Gamwa Clinic in Ward 4 was built by the council at an estimated cost of $50 000, while Batanai Clinic in Ward 2 was built by the council with the help of Tongogara Community Ownership Trust at an estimated cost of $75 000.

“Ruchanyu Clinic in Ward 20 was built by council in partnership with Unki Mine at an estimated cost of $120 000, Jobolinko Clinic in Ward 3 built by the council at an estimated cost of $100 000, Totonga Clinic in Ward 17 was built by Senator Simbarashe Mumbengegwi in partnership with the Chinese Embassy at an estimated cost of $110 000.”

Mr Rufasha said what remained was for the other clinics to be commissioned as all work had been completed, except for a few touchups.