Silozwe Clinic Transforms Healthcare Access For Women in Silozwe Village, Matobo District, Zimbabwe,

By Isheunesu Gwasha (Programs Communications Officer) 

For years, women in Silozwe Village, Matobo District, Zimbabwe, faced a disheartening challenge, accessing healthcare services meant traveling nearly 20 kilometers one way, often on foot, to the nearest clinic. Pregnant mothers, caregivers seeking immunization for their children, and families needing essential medical care endured long journeys, risking complications due to delayed treatment. 

But today, thanks to the collaborative efforts of World Vision Zimbabwe, the Ministry of Health and Child Care, Matobo Rural District Council, and the generous support of World Vision Switzerland, Silozwe Clinic stands as a lifeline for the community, bringing healthcare closer to those who need it most.

The establishment of Silozwe Clinic has improved access to healthcare, particularly for pregnant women and caregivers. Expectant mothers can now receive prenatal check-ups, safe deliveries, and postnatal care without the burden of long-distance travel. Caregivers can immunize their children on time, monitor their Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) for malnutrition, and seek medical attention for common childhood illnesses.

For many women in the community, the establishment of Silozwe Clinic has proven to be a transformative experience. Slindokuhle, a 29-year-old who is seven months pregnant, expresses her relief with heartfelt gratitude, “Before the Silozwe Clinic opened its doors, expectant mothers had to endure long, exhausting walks to Nathisa Clinics for check-ups. It was an exhausting journey that often caused us to miss appointments or arrive late. Now, with the clinic so close by, I can easily access care, and I feel a profound sense of safety knowing that help is readily available.”

Caregivers have also experienced benefits from the clinic's presence. Sinqobile, 27, a mother of two, recounts her previous challenges.

“Immunizing my children used to be a major problem. I often had to plan transportation or embark on lengthy walks, delaying their vaccinations in the process. Now, thanks to the clinic, I can bring my children for their immunizations, ensuring they grow up healthy and strong.”

The health workers at Silozwe Clinic have witnessed firsthand the positive changes within the community. Primary Care Nurse Thandiwe Sibanda reflects on the impact of the clinic, “We are witnessing an increasing number of women seeking prenatal care, a rise in the number of children receiving timely immunizations, and a notable decline in cases of malnutrition. The clinic has genuinely transformed healthcare access in Silozwe Village, bringing hope and improved health to our community.”

Silozwe Clinic stands as more than merely a structure, it serves as a symbol of progress, resilience, and hope within the community. By shortening the distance to access essential healthcare services, the clinic has empowered women, ensured the well-being of children, and strengthened the overall health of the community.

Thanks to the unwavering dedication of World Vision Zimbabwe, the Ministry of Health and Child Care, Matobo Rural District Council and World Vision Switzerland, the residents of Silozwe now look forward to a brighter and healthier future. In this future, mothers and children no longer face the difficult journey of traveling long distances for the vital care they rightfully deserve.