First Lady, Mutinta Hichilema, has handed over a newly constructed rural health centre in Siatwiinda village of Chief Mweemba’s area in Sinazongwe District, Southern Province.
The health facility, which has been named after Mrs Hichilema, has been built with support from the First Lady of the People’s Republic of China.
ZANIS reports that the facility comes with 21 hospital beds, five pediatric beds, three delivery beds, five wheelchairs, 60 blankets and other assorted items.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Mrs Hichilema assured the people of Sinazongwe that they will enjoy quality health services, adding that the facility must be guarded jealously.
Mrs Hichilema said the health facility is a reminder of the friendship and unity that exists between Zambia and China.
“During a state visit to China in 2023, I had the privilege of engaging with the First Lady of the Republic of China, our discussions focused on improving the health and wellbeing of the women, children and vulnerable communities.
And during this engagement, she committed to support us on the construction of this health facility,” she said.
Mrs Hichilema said the friendship reflects the enduring Zambia-China partnership that has existed from the time of Chairman Mao and Zambia’s first Republican President Kenneth Kaunda.
“Today we are witnessing this vision where the community will access treatment without traveling long distances, especially our pregnant mothers,” Mrs Hichilema said.
The First Lady has since encouraged the people of Sinazongwe to guard the facility against vandalism for their own benefit.
Meanwhile, Chinese Ambassador to Zambia, Han Jing, reaffirmed China’s commitment to supporting Zambia in the area of health and other sectors.
He noted that the health facility is a consensus between the two First Ladies, adding that health is the pillar of Zambia-China cooperation.
“China will continue supporting Zambia and this health facility will ensure every child can come into this world in a safe environment,” Mr Jing said.
And Minister of Health, Alex Katakwe, said the construction of the health facility is a clear testimony of Mrs Hichilema’s determination to provide quality health care services closer to the people.
“Every Zambian has the right to access health services and this is a clear example,” Dr Katakwe said.
And Southern Province Minister, Credo Nanjuwa, said the provincial administration is committed to ensure primary health care services are provided regardless of how remote the area is.
Meanwhile, Sinazongwe Member of Parliament, Gift Sialubalo who is also Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, thanked the First Lady for the gesture, saying the health facility will help the people of Sinazongwe to access health services within their reach.
