THE government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Haydom Lutheran Hospital (HLH) by providing expert assistance ensuring the facility continues to deliver quality healthcare and complement the government’s efforts of the health sector.

Mbulu District Commissioner Michael John made the statement over the weekend during the 70th anniversary celebrations of HLH, held at the hospital grounds in Mbulu District, Manyara Region. The event brought together stakeholders from both local and international communities.

John emphasised the hospital’s vital role in the country’s healthcare system, noting that it significantly contributes to the health sector and economic growth. He commended faith-based organisations like HLH for their impact, assuring continued government support. 

The anniversary coincided with the launch of the new mother and child building, officiated by Dr Alex Malasusa, Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Tanzania (ELCT). Following the launch, Bishop Malasusa highlighted HLH as a sanctuary offering both spiritual and healthcare services, with an emphasis on maintaining ethical standards. 

Bishop Malasusa also thanked the government of Norway for its support, which includes both financial contributions and human resources. 

Dr Vick Daudi, HLH’s director of clinical services, provided details about the new mother and child building, which spans 5,200m². 

Expected to be fully operational by April, the facility will offer maternity care, neonatal services, paediatric wards, operating theatres, an ICU, and private patient rooms. 

The building cost 6.2bn/-, with 90 percent of funding from HLH and from Friends of Haydom in Norway. 

Berte Marie, country director of Norwegian Church Aid (NCA), expressed pride in the role NCA played in supporting HLH and reaffirmed that the organisation would continue its partnership. 

NCA will also include HLH in a new 5-year agreement with NORAD (2025-2029), with a funding allocation of 32 million NOK (8bn/-). 

Founded in 1955 by Norwegian missionaries as a dispensary with 50 beds, HLH now serves over 25,000 pregnant mothers, 35,000 births, 80,000 children vaccinated, and 100,000 outpatients annually.