FOR the first time in decades, residents of four remote villages Namtumbo District, Ruvuma Region, namely Magazini, Sasawala, Amani and Likusanguse breathe a sigh of relief after receiving a long-awaited ambulance for Magazini Health Centre.

The ambulance, officially handed over yesterday by Namtumbo MP Vita Kawawa, is expected to transform emergency healthcare for thousands living more than 230 kilometres from the district headquarters where the nearest government hospital is located.

“This is more than just a vehicle—it’s a lifeline,” said Anold Mbunda, a resident of Lingusenguse village. “Women in labour used to walk or be carried on makeshift stretchers to hospital. Some didn’t make it. This ambulance will save lives.”

Community members, speaking during the handover ceremony, recounted harrowing experiences of transporting patients on bicycles or motorcycles, often through rough terrain and in critical condition.

“It was humiliating,” said Ambrose Jungu of Magazini village. “People were carried in undignified ways, especially women. Today marks a new chapter.”

Tizo Matembo added that the absence of emergency transport had cost lives, especially expectant mothers and children. Community health worker Tabia Nguche confirmed the risks, recalling instances of women giving birth on the roadside while being transported on foot or in carts.

Local chief Thabiti Nnambi of Wayao community revealed that more than 10 people had died in recent months due to the lack of timely emergency care. “We are grateful to the government for turning this long-standing plea into action,” he said.

Magazini Health Centre, one of 60 healthcare facilities in the district, recently received over 500m/- from the government for infrastructure upgrades—including outpatient and maternity wards, a theatre, staff housing and a mortuary. An additional 150m/- was allocated for medical equipment.

Despite serving an estimated 13,000 residents, the centre currently operates with only seven staff members—just 13 percent of the required workforce—according to District Medical Officer Dr Aron Hyela.

Jonah Katanga, Acting Namtumbo District Executive Director, noted ongoing efforts to improve the area’s social services, including investments in teacher housing and education infrastructure.

MP Kawawa urged health workers to use the ambulance strictly for medical purposes and protect it from misuse. 

“This is a resource for the community, not personal gain. Let’s protect it and keep working together to support the government’s vision for accessible healthcare,” he said.