The vibrant community of Umtubatuba, KwaZulu-Natal, celebrated a significant milestone during a spirited sod-turning ceremony that heralded the commencement of construction for the long-awaited Community Health Centre (CHC). Amidst an atmosphere of hope and anticipation, residents gathered in large numbers at the Mtubatuba Rugby Club near the municipality, underscoring the collective determination to enhance healthcare accessibility while fostering local economic empowerment.
Empowering the Community
Led by KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube and Health MEC Nomagugu Simelane, the event not only marked the symbolic beginning of a transformative healthcare initiative but also served as a platform for community engagement and empowerment. The introduction of the contractor tasked with the construction of the CHC symbolized a collaborative effort between government officials and local stakeholders to address the pressing healthcare needs of the community.
Healthcare Access Redefined
The establishment of the Community Health Centre represents a vital step towards redefining healthcare access for the residents of Umtubatuba. By bringing essential medical services closer to home, the CHC aims to alleviate the burden of traveling long distances in search of healthcare, thereby saving community costs and time. This initiative aligns with the overarching goal of ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare services for all members of the community.
Comprehensive Healthcare Services
One of the most noteworthy aspects of the CHC project is its commitment to providing a wide range of healthcare services tailored to meet the diverse needs of the community. Upon completion, the center will serve as a one-stop destination for disease screenings, medication collection, dental and optometric consultations, TB and cancer screenings, as well as specialized services for male health. Additionally, the CHC will offer free circumcision services and facilitate access to mobility aids such as wheelchairs and crutches, further enhancing the quality of life for residents.
Isibhedlela Kubantu: Bringing Healthcare Closer
In conjunction with the groundbreaking ceremony, the community was treated to a day of free health services through the Isibhedlela Kubantu program. This initiative, aimed at bringing healthcare services directly to the people, underscored the commitment of local authorities to prioritize the well-being of residents. From basic health screenings to specialized consultations, the program provided invaluable support to individuals and families, reaffirming the importance of proactive healthcare interventions.
As construction commences and the vision of a Community Health Centre begins to take shape, the Umtubatuba community stands poised on the brink of a new era in healthcare delivery. Beyond the tangible infrastructure, the CHC represents a beacon of hope, empowerment, and resilience for generations to come. Through collective action and unwavering dedication, Umtubatuba is charting a course towards a healthier, more vibrant future—one where access to essential healthcare services knows no bounds.
The Premier said the construction of the Community Health Centre will result in the creation of more than 300 jobs. She urged those responsible for employing staff to refrain from employing people based on political affiliation or membership.
“We have repeatedly heard disturbing news that some local leaders employ people who are members of certain political parties. If these allegations are true, we denounce them with the contempt they deserve.
We also urge the community to take care of the facility when it has been completed. We also discourage community members who demand that only local professional people must be employed in health facilities. Employment of professionals in these facilities need to be done on merit – irrespective of where the health professionals hail from,” said Premier Dube-Ncube.
The Premier concluded her address by handing over ten vehicles to Community Policing Forums (CPFs) in Umkhanyakude District Municipality. The ten cars are part of a fleet of 85 vehicles that were unveiled during the handing over of tools of trade to Community crime fighting structure, in Durban, on 5 April 2024.
The vehicles will go a long way in accelerating the fight against crime, which is prevalent in the Umkhanyakude District Municipality.
True to her speech in which she encouraged the employment of people irrespective of political affiliation, the Premier randomly picked up eight people from the crowd that attended the community engagement – and offered them employment on the spot – to loud ululation and jubilation from the crowd.