Published 20/01/2012 

I’m the new HIPZ doctor working in Makunduchi and have been suitably impressed with the hospital during my first two weeks.

This year promises to be an important year for HIPZ and a time to keep pushing forwards with the significant advances our humble hospital has seen over the past few years, and take on the challenge of Kivunge in the North.

Surgery is happening on a two weekly basis, and Dr Mohammed, General Surgeon from Mnazi Mmoja declared he looks forward to his days working in the calm of the Makunduchi theatre... This month, we have repaired six hernias, and two hydroceles, with all the patients being discharged the following day with no complications. Dr Amour continues to improve and is becoming a fine surgeon.

The dental service is also running very smoothly. The clinic is open twice a week and is tremendously busy. Word has certainly spread.

We have had difficulties with our ambulance service, having to make do without one for 2 days. However the Ministry of Health has supplied us with an alternative ambulance and the maternity service has not been affected.  We look forward to having our own ambulance up and running in early February.

The building work on the staff accommodation is finally beginning to move. Currently 6 out of 12 houses are being renovated and 2 are complete to a high standard. 

During my fist two weeks the maternity ward has been exceptional. A baby born at 32 weeks, was delivered with no injuries, and resuscitated successfully by the midwives on duty. Unfortunately he succumbed to an infection a day later.  However we have nursed sick neonates back to health, with antibiotics, and great care from their mothers and the nursing staff.

Thanks must also go out to Mark at the Red Monkey Lodge and the Pack for a Purpose website. With their cooperation, donations from generous tourists have been received with open arms. Special thanks for the baby clothes and umbilical cord clamps.

Christopher Goes