MORE than 1,000 residents of Simbanguru Village in Manyoni District, Singida Region, have gone without nighttime medical services for over three years after elephants destroyed the village dispensary nurse’s residence.

The absence of on-site medical personnel during night hours has left villagers vulnerable during emergencies—particularly expectant mothers and critically ill patients who require urgent care outside of regular daytime hours.

In response to the crisis, the Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA) has donated 90 bags of cement to help reconstruct the nurse’s residence to enable the nurse return and provide around-the-clock care.

Speaking on behalf of the community, Simbanguru Village Chairperson Maneno Chituya said the destruction of the nurse’s house has severely impacted healthcare access for the village's more than 10,000 residents.

“Since the nurse’s house was destroyed by elephants over three years ago, our people have faced serious hardships,” he said. “In nighttime emergencies, residents must walk long distances to wake the nurse at a rented home far from the dispensary.”

Winn Kweka, Community Relations Officer for TAWA’s Central Zone, said the donation is part of broader efforts to address human-wildlife conflict and restore essential services in affected communities.

“We are grateful to the government for prioritizing community wellbeing,” Kweka said. “Through TAWA, we support the reconstruction of the nurse’s residence so that night medical services can resume.”

Dr Elias Mjaira, medical officer in charge of the dispensary, expressed gratitude for the donation, calling it a timely intervention that would bring relief to many families.

“The return of on-site healthcare services at night will help save lives. We thank TAWA for this support,” he said.

Several residents also expressed relief, noting that lack of accessible nighttime healthcare has resulted in tragic outcomes, especially for pregnant mothers and infants in urgent need of care.