JOHN KOMBE writes
Residents of Katoba ward in Chongwe have complained over the delayed operationalization of a donor constructed clinic which was completed in October last year.
Some residents said that the clinic which was constructed by a Faith Based Organisation (FBO), Jesus Christ Church of the Latter Day Saints was not in use despite the donor completing the project.
Immediate former area councilor, Charles Moyo disclosed that the facility was constructed by the donor in conjunction with the former area of parliament, Japhen Mwakalombe. He said that the district health office was aware of the development and had promised to commission the clinic early this year. He however expressed shock that the facility which was meant to bring health care services closer to the people was still not in use. He said that the community had even constructed a staff house as part of the contribution and were eager to start using the facility.
He therefore appealed to the district health office to take the matter seriously. He said that the people were still walking long distances to access primary health care even after working so hard to alleviate the challenge.
The former civic leader said that the people in the area have had to cover long distances to access primary health care, but this would be history once the clinic is operationalized. He therefore stressed that there was need to open the facility to the public because it was now vulnerable to vandalized.
Another resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity appealed to the ministry of health to expedite the commissioning of the clinic. He said that the donor also donated some equipment that would enable the facility to commence operations. He said that such a gesture must be followed up by equal attention. He said that the community felt neglected even after contributing a staff house to accord accommodation for immediate staff occupation.
Meanwhile, Chongwe district health director, Dr. Joseph Kabungo could not be reached for a comment as his phone went unanswered by press time.
