The Minister of Health, Mr. Selibe Mochoboroane officially handed over a new health post to Pholo-Namane residents on Thursday.
Mr. Mochoboroane revealed that over 200,000 has been invested in building this health post, which will serve 5,000 people. He emphasised the Ministry of Health’s commitment to ensuring accessible healthcare services for the community of Pholo Namane and neighbouring villages. This health post will enable people to save money and access essential services without travelling to Botha-Bothe Hospital.
The Minister expressed his aspiration for the health post to evolve into a full-fledged clinic, offering comprehensive healthcare services, thereby reducing the need for villagers to seek care at other facilities. He urged the community and the local chief to secure additional space for the health post’s expansion, considering the upcoming operations of Belo factories, which will necessitate closer access to healthcare services.
The Director General of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Nyane Letsie extended her gratitude to the Lesotho Defence Force and the clinic’s funding partner for ensuring the facility’s readiness for operation.
Dr. Letsie urged the community to take responsibility for the clinic, proposing the establishment of a board to oversee its operations and maintain collaboration with community members.
She appealed to the chief to provide secure accommodation for the nurses who will facilitate the functioning of the health post as it transits into a clinic.
On behalf of LDF, Captain Relebohile Makeka expressed gratitude for the opportunity to assist the community and reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the safety of people’s lives.
Also speaking the funding partner, Mr. Taryob Joooma from TJ Group of companies the villagers had supported his supermarket when he was starting the business and he felt compelled to give back.
Mr. Joooma pledged to continue supporting the Botha-Bothe health sector.
Mrs. Mabafokeng Lebusetsa, one of the villagers, recounted the clinic’s journey, which began in 2017 with the construction of a clinic that was never operational due to the roof being blown away. She highlighted the determination of the Village Health Workers and their efforts to allow a nurse to provide services on the premises of a nearby school.
Mrs. Lebusetsa explained that the health post is a needed resource, given their village’s remote location, making it challenging to reach Botha-Bothe Hospital. She expressed her gratitude to everyone who contributed to the establishment of the health post.
Source: LENA 10/11/2023
