MBOMBELA – The local municipal council has at last approved the transfer of some of its land for the construction of a new community health centre in KaNyamazane.
The provincial department of health made the request to Mbombela in February 2013. In the letter it claims that the existing clinic was inadequate to serve the population estimated at 62 342.
“The major challenge with the facility is that the infrastructure is dilapidated and the space is insufficient for provision of the comprehensive package of services,” notes the report by the then head of the department Mr Richard Mnisi.
The report recommending the transfer of the property was tabled by the economic development section of Mbombela Local Municipality (MLM) to council during its last special council meeting. It explains that the centre is meant to alleviate the long traveling distances residents currently endure to consult at either Rob Ferreira or Themba hospitals.
Last year the existing clinic also came under the spotlight over allegations of poor patient care that even resulted in a woman giving birth under a tree when she was allegedly turned away.
Council approved the donation of the council property after no vacant private properties that are suitable (1,5 hectares located near public transport facilities) were available.
MLM’s report notes that the clinic will benefit the municipality since construction will provide temporary jobs, it will result in improved health service and council will be able to level rates and taxes on the property once it is transferred to the health department.
The costs of the traffic impact assessment, fencing, subdivision, rezoning and required municipal infrastructure will be carried by MLM through its capital expenditure budget prior to the alienation.
“The preparation costs are regarded as the contribution from council to provide a better primary health care service for the local community,” notes the report.
