BCC to establish pharmacies at its six clinics

The Bulawayo City Council has announced its intentions to introduce pharmacies at six of its clinics, aligning with the government's efforts to offer affordable medication. Furthermore, plans are in motion to construct two additional clinics in the Cowdray Park and Luveve suburbs to enhance the decentralization of healthcare services.

The new pharmacies will be established at the Luveve, Njube, Pelandaba, Emakhandeni, Maqhawe, and E F Watson clinics. These proposals are part of the local authority's standstill budget for 2024, which amounts to US$264 million. The budget was presented by Councillor Mpumelelo Moyo, the chairperson of the city's finance and economic development committee, on Monday.

Currently, residents primarily acquire their medications from private pharmacies in the town. Councillor Moyo stated, "The City of Bulawayo is working on establishing pharmacies at selected clinics. The program is starting with Luveve, Njube, Pelandaba, Emakhandeni, Maqhawe, and E F Watson clinics."

The council also expressed appreciation for the government's contribution in providing medicines through the National Pharmaceutical Company (Natpharm), which ensures the delivery of primary healthcare services to residents at lower costs.

Despite the crucial role of clinics in providing primary healthcare, patients are often compelled to travel to the town to purchase medicines.

Councillor Moyo emphasized the council's aim to construct two clinics in the Cowdray Park and Emganwini suburbs. He mentioned, "Provision of health services is key to the well-being of residents, and US$7.4 million has been allocated in the capital budget to address health issues, including the construction of two clinics in Cowdray Park and Emganwini suburbs."

Additionally, the council plans to revamp the Crematorium and work on the Pumula South and Marvel cemeteries. The council acknowledges the valuable support from non-governmental organizations that finance the city's healthcare services through Results Based Financing (RBF), which enables the provision of free maternal health services to residents.

Councillor Moyo also expressed gratitude for the government's role in constructing a new clinic in Cowdray Park, Hlalani Kuhle, in the Empompini area.

Furthermore, the council has outlined plans to construct a new primary school and additional classroom blocks and libraries in the coming year. In 2017, the council identified a shortage of 65 schools in the city. Councillor Moyo shared that US$4.9 million has been allocated for education-related capital expenditure, including the construction of libraries in Mahatshula, Emakhandeni, and Cowdray Park suburbs, as well as refurbishing the Nkulumane Library. Additionally, two classroom blocks will be built at Ngwalongwalo Primary School and Vulindlela Primary School, along with the construction of a new school, Khuzwayo Primary School, and the establishment of a science laboratory at Sizalendaba Secondary School.