RESIDENTS of Kibaha District no longer have to travel over 40 kilometres to access surgical services following the official launch of such operations at Kibaha District Hospital, an initiative inaugurated by Uhuru Torch Race yesterday.

The launch marked a significant step in expanding healthcare access for the local population. Previously, residents were referred to Tumbi Regional Referral Hospital for surgical procedures, leading to delays and increased costs.

According to Dr Christopher Ngendello, Medical Officer-in-Charge of Kibaha District Hospital, the facility received 300m/- from the central government to procure essential surgical and diagnostic equipment.

“The funds were used to purchase an anesthesia machine, 30 hospital beds and mattresses, a chemistry analyzer, blood storage refrigerators, medicine cabinets, blood donation chairs and various surgical tools,” he said.

Dr Ngendello added that surgical services officially commenced in March, and by April 8, a total of 16 patients had successfully undergone operations.

“The introduction of surgical services at the district level has not only brought care closer to the people but also helped the hospital cut operational costs. 

“We have saved between 24m/- and 30m/- that was previously used for fuel and maintenance of ambulances transporting patients to referral facilities,” he noted.

Speaking at the event, National Torch Race Leader Ismail Ussi commended the government for its continued efforts to make healthcare services accessible to many citizens regardless of economic background.

 He urged community members to protect and maintain hospital facilities and utilize available health services locally instead of seeking them from distant areas.

Ussi also called on citizens to join the fight against malaria and HIV/AIDS by following the guidance provided by healthcare professionals, stressing that community involvement is key to eliminating the diseases.

Kibaha District Commissioner Nickson Simon, who received the Uhuru Torch from Bagamoyo District, said the torch would be used to inspect and launch 13 development projects in Kibaha, collectively valued at 10.5bn/-.

Among other projects are the construction of classrooms and an office at Uhuru Primary School, a youth poultry farming initiative and inspection of a technical secondary school at Minazimikinda Village.