The ManicaPost
Luthando Mapepa Chipinge Correspondent —
THE Ministry of Health and Child Care last week commissioned a state-of-the-art obstetric theatre at the Roman Catholic Church-owned St Peter’s Hospital in Chisumbanje.
For many years villagers were forced to travel to Chipinge and Chiredzi district hospitals to be attended.
Last Wednesday marked the dawn of a new era for the villagers following the commissioning of the theatre, thanks to funding from by the Responsible Authority together with various development partners such as Government, World Vision, UNFAP, COADAID and the community.
Officially opening the theatre, Chipinge District Medical Director, Dr Bryn Makumbe, who was speaking on behalf of Manicaland Provincial Medical Director, Dr Patron Mafaune, said controllable deaths in Chipinge were set to decrease significantly following the commissioning of the theatre.
“Today we celebrate a milestone achievement as we reflect upon the new theatre facility that is going to be a cornerstone in the reduction of maternal and child mortality.
“The hospital now has upgraded its maternal and child care by reducing the risk of death from delays.
“This tremendous achievement goes a long way in alleviating risks of maternal health,”said Dr Makumbe, who added that the theatre would bring convenience and reduce risk of casualties.
“Prior to this achievement, complicated maternal cases were referred to Chipinge and Chiredzi district hospitals which would, in some instances, result in the loss of either the mother or the baby or in extreme case both parties,” he added.
Mr Mangwinire who was representing Member of National Assembly for Chipinge South, Cde Enock Porusingazi welcomed the gesture and hailed the Responsible Authority and development partners for championing development in marginalised places like Chipinge South.
“This hospital has the largest catchment area in the province as it caters for constituents and part of Mozambique, hence having a theatre was a necessity as heavily pregnant mothers used to travel long distance to access this service,” said Mr Mangwinire.
An elated pregnant woman, Mrs Cynthia Mahachi welcomed the new facility and said it would save lives and costs.
“Many expecting mothers here were dying on their way to referral hospitals and this new facility will reduce the risk of maternal death and other complications,” she said.
