Tunatazama - Community Monitors

NEW HEALTH CARE UNIT COMING TO TSHAMAHANSI CLINIC

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Ivanplats mine, together with the Mokgalakwena local municipality is in the process of developing healthcare in the Waterberg District. The turning point was the ceremony that marked the official opening of the construction of the new maternal and child health care unit at the Tshamahansi clinic. The event was presided over by Limpopo Health MEC, Dr. Phophi Ramathuba, and also attended by the mayor of Mokgalakwena’s local municipality Ngoako Tauetsoala. It signified a crucial step toward the enhancement of healthcare services for the community.

Tshamahansi clinic falls under the jurisdiction of Mokgalakwena local municipality, it serves a population of 36,500 with an average headcount of 3500. These are individuals who seek medical attention for various ailments. The clinic plays a pivotal role in providing essential healthcare to four surrounding villages of Tshamahansi, Magongoa, Mokaba, and Mzombane.

The decision to construct the maternal and child healthcare unit stems from a collaborative effort between the Limpopo Department of Health and Ivanplats Mine. This demonstrates the power of public-private partnerships in the improvement of infrastructure and services. This partnership underscores a shared commitment to enhancing healthcare accessibility and quality for communities in need.

The new unit will significantly bolster the clinic’s capacity to provide specialized care for both mother and child, addressing the critical healthcare needs within the broader region. Improved facilities and state-of-the-art equipment will enable healthcare professionals to deliver good services such as prenatal care, maternal care, pediatric care, and immunization.

MEC Dr Phophi Ramathuba emphasized the importance of investing in healthcare infrastructure to meet the increasing demands of the community. She expressed her gratitude to the partners involved in the project and reiterated the government’s commitment to improving healthcare access and outcomes.

The same sentiments were also echoed by the mayor, Cllr Ngoako Tauetsoala. He highlighted the transformative impact the new unit will have on maternal and child healthcare outcomes in the region.     

The construction of the maternal and child healthcare unit at Tshamahansi Clinic reflects a proactive approach towards addressing healthcare disparities. This also ensures that every individual especially mother and child, receives the care and support they deserve. This initiative stands as a beacon of hope for communities striving for better health and well-being.

MEC Dr Phophi Ramathuba committed that by November 2024 the Tshamahansi maternal ward and child healthcare unit will be completed. Half of the community was present and one community member, Mr. Saul Matjeke said that the mine and the municipality always make promises when it’s election time. Afterward, they disappear and no longer implement what they promised us as communities. 

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