Residents from different parts of Gakenke District have welcomed the move to resume construction works on Gatonde Hospital, which had stalled for almost a year. Delays in the construction of the Rwf2.5 billion hospital was undermining government prospects easing access to healthcare services to the people of Gakenke. Completion of the hospital was delayed by shortage of funds, district officials told The New Times. Construction works were resumed early this week. Now the Governor of the Northern Province, Jean Marie Vianney Gatabazi, said that government has secured some funds, saying that the hospital will be operational by July this year. Some Gakenke locals said that the decision to resume construction gives them hope that they will soon be relieved of trekking long distances to get healthcare services “It means a lot to women as we previously used to face various challenges, especially at the time of giving birth, but with this hospital we are expecting changes,” said Godelive Mukaruziga, a mother of two from Mugunga Sector. In the recent interview with The New Times, the Minister of Health Dr. Diane Gashumba, revealed that Gatonde Hospital will be a medicalised centre as it will be providing specialised medical services. The hospital will largely serve thousands of residents from six sectors of Gakenke District, namely Busengo, Janja, Muzo, Mugunga, Rusasa and Cyabingo. editorial@newtimes.co.rw
