Clayton Shereni
MASVINGO: The Coca-Cola Foundation recently unveiled a massive US$250 000 package set aside to improve access to potable water at health facilities dotted across the country.
This comes at a time when the nation’s healthcare system is overwhelmed and the water demand is increasing every day at clinics and hospitals, mostly in maternity wards.
Save the Children will implement the projects at five health facilities to cushion centres that are having challenges in accessing water.
Addressing guests during the unveiling ceremony, Save the Children Country Director, Heather Kerr expressed optimism that the projects will add value and make a difference at the health facilities even beyond the Covid-19 pandemic.
“We’re very excited to launch these two initiatives in Zimbabwe, where needs are vast and resources scarce. Given the ongoing global pandemic, the water project will support the health staff and surrounding communities in the fight against COVID-19.
“But beyond COVID-19, health facilities require water for all operations, especially in the delivery wards; they need water in the laundry, kitchen and for drinking by the staff, patients, and the community,” Kerr said.
The facilities expected to benefit are; Maphisa District Hospital in Matobo, Siakobvu Rural Hospital in Kariba which is already in progress, Msampakaruma clinic in Kariba, Chikwarakwara clinic in Beitbridge, and Binga’s Chinego clinic.
Communities surrounding these facilities are also to benefit from the piped water project.
Each of these targeted health centres serves hundreds of people who live in their respective vicinities.
Speaking at the same event, Coca-Cola Franchise Manager Archbold Ndlovu said his organization seeks to make a mark in society and promote sustainable growth.
“As market leaders, we have a responsibility to make a meaningful difference – to empower and protect the communities and the environment in which we operate. JAMII is a Swahili word that means Community, Society, People – because it represents who we are as Africans and aligns with our values as an organization- our resilience, our commitment, and our spirit of community.
“Together with Save the Children we are partnering to promote JAMII and sustainable growth in Zimbabwe,” said Ndlovu.
The package will also cater for youth training and income-generating projects which are targeting 400 youths.
Some of the expected projects include; poultry, welding, and other entrepreneurship opportunities.
