DEPUTY Prime Minister and Minister for Energy, Dr Doto Biteko, has inaugurated the newly renovated and expanded Miles and Kimberly White High School in Mapatano, Mkinga District, Tanga Region

The school, developed in partnership with the global healthcare firm Abbott Fund, will focus on science-based education and accommodate 800 pupils per year.

During an inauguration event earlier this week, Dr Biteko praised Abbott for their longstanding support in fostering healthier and stronger communities across Tanzania. 

 “I want to congratulate all stakeholders who have contributed their time and investment, especially the Abbott Fund, for their generous support to Tanzania. We are very grateful for your contributions to this community,” he solemnly declared.

Dr Biteko urged citizens to take responsibility for the school, ensuring it remains a valuable resource for future generations.
 The school was renamed in honour of Miles White, former CEO of Abbott, and his late wife Kimberly, recognising their contributions to education and community development in Mkinga District, where they previously assisted in constructing a primary school in Buntu Village.

He expressed gratitude to development stakeholders for their commitment to improving citizens' lives and building healthier communities.
 Robert Ford, chairperson and CEO of the Abbott Fund, pledged ongoing collaboration with the government in various sectors, including capacity building for medical equipment specialists. 

 “Alongside health, education is the foundation of our development and prosperity. That is why we have made education the primary goal of our long-term partnership in the country,” he stated.

Ford expressed confidence that this investment in education would empower more Tanzanians to live fulfilling lives.

The Abbott Fund provided over $4 million to support the establishment of the school and is offering ongoing technical assistance to ensure the long-term sustainability of the facilities. For over two decades, Abbott and the Abbott Fund have partnered with the Tanzanian government to strengthen the healthcare system and build healthier communities.

Since 2001, the Abbott Fund has worked with the government to enhance the country’s healthcare system. A significant partnership began in 2009, focusing on emergency medicine after upgrading outpatient care and completing a nationwide hospital lab modernisation programme. Additionally, the Abbott Fund has invested in creating training centres in five regions, including Dodoma, Mwanza, and Mbeya, to teach emergency medicine to health workers.