Kariega Community Rallies to Reopen Mabandla Clinic with Volunteer Security

Kariega residents, in a remarkable display of community spirit and initiative, have successfully facilitated the reopening of the crucial Mabandla Clinic in Nelson Mandela Bay by stepping up as volunteer security guards. The clinic, a lifeline to approximately 500 daily patients, had been forced to shut its doors since January 11 due to security threats, which left nurses fearing for their safety following the theft of the perimeter fence.

The Mabandla Clinic in Kariega had become a risky environment for healthcare professionals. Past incidents of on-duty staff being robbed created an atmosphere of fear and apprehension. Being without a fence made the clinic a soft target for criminal activity, leading to the nurses’ decision to cease working under such unsafe conditions.

These security issues at the clinic were brought to the forefront during a crucial community meeting on Tuesday night, attended by about 100 locals who were determined to address the clinic's closure. This assembly, chaired by ward councillor Sabelo Mabuda from the ANC, sparked a glimmer of hope when ten residents volunteered to stand guard at the clinic in shifts, thereby assuring the nurses of their safety.

Highlighting the dire need for community intervention in addressing local security deficiencies, Lungeka Wiliams pointed out the issue of non-functioning high mast lights that, if repaired, would significantly improve visibility and safety around the clinic.

The community involvement didn’t stop at volunteers. The chairperson of KwaNobuhle Community Policing Forum (CPF), Siphiwo Vusani, pledged support by donating essential equipment such as 15 reflector vests and 15 torches to the appointed guards, while also assuring increased police visibility in the vicinity of the clinic. Vusani further emphasized the importance of community vigilance, citing local schools that also warrant monitoring due to the risk of criminal stripping, similar to the fate suffered by stadiums and halls in the area.

This collective initiative garnered positive feedback from the clinic staff, who felt reassured by the presence of security.

The Eastern Cape Health Department, through the spokesperson Sizwe Kupelo, has echoed the efforts of the Kariega residents, recognizing the urgency of the situation. Kupelo assured GroundUp that emergency procurement processes have been launched to ensure the timely installation of proper boundary fencing at the clinic.

As the volunteer guards commenced their protective duties on Wednesday, the reopened clinic was a testament to a community determined to overcome obstacles through unity and proactive measures.

The health and safety of communities hinge not just on government action but also on the willingness of citizens to step up and contribute tangible solutions to pressing issues. This occurrence in Kariega serves as an inspiration, shining a spotlight on the potential of community engagement and collaborative problem-solving in enhancing public service facilities.