Uzumba-Maramba-Pfungwe District has entered what officials describe as a “new era of healthcare delivery” after Starlink satellite internet was installed at all 19 local health facilities, including Maramba Clinic.
The announcement was made on 26 August 2025 by government spokesperson Nick Mangwana, who shared the development on X. He said the initiative came through a collaboration between the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MOHCC) in Uzumba-Maramba-Pfungwe and the Zvataida Rural District Council.
Mangwana stated:
“Uzumba-Maramba-Pfungwe District has entered a new era of healthcare delivery with the installation of Starlink satellite internet across all 19 health facilities, including Maramba Clinic. This achievement was made possible through a strategic partnership between MOHCC-UMP District and Zvataida RDC.”
He added that the connectivity would allow telemedicine consultations, improve data systems, and provide better access to specialist care.
‘A new era of healthcare delivery’
According to Mangwana, the high-speed internet rollout is expected to bridge gaps in healthcare services in the district.
“With reliable high-speed connectivity now in place, clinics can facilitate telemedicine consultations, enhance data management, and improve access to specialist care,” he said.
Supporters of the programme welcomed the idea, but some questioned whether satellite was the right choice.
A user on X, going by the name Sekuru Va Tity (@lastjnr42), wrote:
“Telemedicine, someone just got a way to make money. Why isn’t there mobile or fibre connections already?”
In response, Mangwana defended the decision, saying:
“What’s wrong with low earth orbit satellite based internet?”
Mixed reactions on social media
The announcement quickly sparked debate online, with some celebrating the access to Wi-Fi in rural clinics, while others expressed scepticism.
One user, Tabve Mvuma WeNew Castle (@prydmavecere), reacted sharply:
“‘New era of healthcare delivery’… aren’t you ashamed to say that in 2025, Nick?”
Another, under the handle SAMANYANGA (@1samaz_), joked:
“UZ ine Wi-Fi???” (Does the University of Zimbabwe have Wi-Fi)
Others raised questions about cost and transparency. MaiweZimbabwe (@zimwildwarrior) commented:
“Here we go again. One of the ZANU PF Gold Mafia’s zanuoids will have bought the kits for US$100 (R1,800) each and sold them to these clinics for US$2,000 (R36,000) each.”
Another user, State security (@faraichikonaz44), claimed:
“Apa takaisungirwa Starlink iyoyi” (We were once arrested for this same Starlink).
Meanwhile, The Gas Guru (@TinasheTal2489) admitted confusion:
“What really is telemedicine, Sir?”
The debate highlighted both enthusiasm and suspicion, with some seeing opportunity and others questioning accountability.
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