In a landmark development for Matabeleland South, the Honourable Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Hon Albert Nguluvhe today commissioned Lady Coleta Private Hospital, a state-of-the-art facility set to significantly improve healthcare delivery in the region. The commissioning ceremony was graced by an esteemed delegation, including the Deputy Minister of Information Technology, Communication and Courier Services, Hon. Dingumuzi Phuti, who welcomed all attendees, alongside A/DDC and her RDDC members, PDC members (represented by Acting Director Mr Jusa and Dr Chipoyiwa), a representative of the Plumtree Town Secretary, and five revered traditional leaders: Chiefs Wasi, Tshitshi, Madlambudzi, Hikhwa, and Mpini.

Lady Coleta Private Hospital is a private initiative led by three distinguished doctors, Dr Machingauta, Dr Machadu, and Dr Nganunu. The hospital currently operates with 25 beds, with a full capacity target of 32 to 40 beds. Upon full operation, the facility will employ approximately 60 people and has already created 17 jobs. Future service offerings, including maternity, theatre services, diagnostics, dental care, primary healthcare, and pharmaceutical services, will begin once theatre construction is complete.

Minister Nguluvhe, in his keynote address, applauded the trio of doctors for heeding President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa’s call that *“ilizwe lakhiwa ngabanikazi balo.”* He assured them of continued government support in expanding access to quality healthcare within communities. The Minister encouraged both local and diaspora-based investors to emulate the visionary work of these doctors, adding that services must remain affordable for the general public. On employment, he emphasised the need to prioritise locals in staffing to foster a sense of community ownership and long-term sustainability.

A heartening announcement was made when the Minister requested that all traditional leaders from Mangwe and Bulilima be treated free of charge at the hospital, a proposal immediately accepted by the facility’s leadership.

In her closing remarks, Chief Wasi extended gratitude to the Honourable Minister for his servant leadership and commitment to inclusive development, affirming that indeed, no one and no place is being left behind.

This hospital is expected to serve not only Plumtree residents but also draw clients from Bulawayo and neighbouring Botswana, cementing its place as a beacon of health advancement in the region.