The government has criticized the poor-quality work at the new Bhale Rural Health Centre, saying the contractor must improve or risk having the project redone.
The clinic, which received US$200,000 in government funding, has disappointed both officials and locals after inspections showed the buildings are already falling apart before even being completed.
Two small structures meant to provide essential health services are showing cracks, broken windows, and loose door hinges. This left health officials and community leaders frustrated.
Dr Fungai Musinami, the District Medical Officer, said, “The buildings are breaking before we even start using them. They don’t meet the basic standards for a health facility.”
Traditional leader Chief Nekatambe was more direct, saying, “This is unacceptable. The buildings should be torn down and rebuilt. We can’t even invite guests to see this mess. Locals should be involved in future projects.”
Presidential Special Adviser Dr Joram Gumbo, who visited the site on Thursday, agreed that the project needs to be re-evaluated. He said poor construction will make it hard to register the facility with the health authorities.
The government had funded the clinic to reduce the burden on villagers who have been traveling 19km to the nearest health centre in Dinde.
