Delayed Payments Hinder Progress of Domasi Community Hospital Construction
Delayed payments contribute to the slow progress of Domasi Community Hospital construction, causing suffering and inconvenience for the community.
ZOMBA, MALAWI — The construction of Domasi Community Hospital in Zomba District has faced significant delays due to payment issues, hindering its completion and functionality, writes Peter Davieson.
During a recent site visit led by Deputy Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Dr. Jane Banda, it was revealed that the construction, which began in November 2013, was supposed to be completed by June 2015. However, after ten years, the hospital is still not operational.
Dr. Banda, who heads the Presidential Delivery Unit (PDU) and serves as the Deputy Secretary to the President and Cabinet, expressed concern over the project's slow progress.
She stated, "I can say that now it is 65% done, so our mandate is to visit the site and identify the factors delaying the project. We will engage the Secretary of the Treasury to assess the available funds and address the challenges."
To complete the first phase of the hospital, which would allow it to function as a health centre, an estimated K2.8 billion is required.
As a temporary measure, the premises will be secured while waiting for full completion.
Secretary for Health, Dr Samson Mndolo, expressed his worries about the situation, emphasising that people are suffering and forced to travel long distances to Zomba Central Hospital.
He stated, "As the government, we are trying to alleviate their pain by opening the Outpatient Department (OPD) in January. This phased approach will give hope to the people, and we have brought OPD staff to assist us and raise funds."
The delayed payments and subsequent slow progress of the Domasi Community Hospital construction have caused significant inconvenience and suffering for the community.
Efforts are underway to address the challenges and ensure the hospital's completion in order to provide much-needed healthcare services.