Island residents in need of medical attention had to travel 14 km (8.6 mi.) by dhow to the mainland town of Vilanculos, then a further 5 km (3.1 mi.) to the clinic. The Inhambane Provincial Government recognised the need for on-site medical facilities to support residents living in the three small village communities of Chizungune, Bavene and Chiringoma. Together with other local tourism operators, a start was made on the construction of a health centre and doctor’s accommodation on Benguerra Island. This was planned to mitigate the lengthy dhow trip to Vilanculos on the mainland for urgent medical attention. However, this project stalled halfway through completion.
Critical developments that followed include accommodation for the attending two centre nurses from the mainland, and additional water access. Clean water is a precious and limited resource on the island. A solar powered second borehole to supply running water for the health centre was completed in February 2022. A full-time centre doctor has been earmarked by the health ministry when resources allow. This will take this legacy project to yet another level.