Amid cheers and applause from local residents, Prof. Adolf Mkenda, the Minister of Education, Science, and Technology, today inaugurated the newly constructed Makoga Health Center in Wanging'ombe Constituency, marking a pivotal moment in the region's healthcare development.
The center, built by the government at a cost of over 500 million Tanzanian shillings, stands as a beacon of hope for the community, offering essential health services where none existed before.
As the ribbon was cut, signaling the center's official opening, Prof. Mkenda addressed the gathered crowd under the warm September sun.
He emphasized the importance of maintaining the facility, which is equipped with cutting-edge medical technology and staffed with experienced doctors and nurses, poised to deliver first-class care.
"This health center is not just a building; it is a lifeline. The investment made here is monumental, and it reflects the progress we are making as a nation in healthcare," Prof. Mkenda told the residents of Makoga.
"We’ve reached a point where even patients from abroad come to Tanzania for treatment. Let us not be discouraged by challenges but see how far we’ve come," he added
The crowd, a mix of elders and young families, listened attentively, many reflecting on how healthcare in the area had dramatically improved.
Just three years ago, as the Member of Parliament for Wanging'ombe recalled, there were no buildings, and locals faced the daily struggle of seeking medical help in faraway districts.
The district’s Commissioner, Zacharia Mwansasu, proudly noted that the community itself had played a crucial role in the construction.
"Local residents contributed their labor to build the nurse's residence, saving costs," he said.
Additionally, the government has allocated over 100 million shillings for modern medical equipment, further enhancing the health center’s capacity.
Among the attendees was Lucy Chaula, a resident of Makoa Ward, who expressed her gratitude to President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
"We now have a place to turn to for safe deliveries and maternal care. The modern equipment has reduced deaths among mothers, and the doctors truly care about us," she said, her voice filled with emotion.
As the sun set behind the rolling hills of Wanging'ombe, the inauguration of Makoga Health Center stood as a testament to the government's commitment to improving the lives of its people, one project at a time.