The government of Tanzania has provided TZS 900 million to build a new maternity ward at Ukerewe District Hospital with a view of improving healthcare services for mothers and newborns in the district.
The funding is part of President Samia Suluhu Hassan's efforts to improve healthcare across the country, especially in areas with limited access to essential services.
Ukerewe has faced challenges in maternal healthcare for years as women often travel long distances to get treatment, which has led to complications during childbirth and, in some cases, loss of lives.
The new maternity ward is expected to address these issues and provide better care for mothers and babies.
Mwanza Regional Commissioner Said Mtanda visited the hospital on Friday, December 27, 2024, to inspect the project but just found that the construction, which was supposed to be finished in June, has been delayed by six months.
Mtanda directed the project team to complete the work in 20 days.
“The government has sent TZS 900 million to build this important maternity ward to improve healthcare for the people. Supervisors must not delay this work,” Mtanda said.
He also expressed concern about the use of funds. Only 85% of the money has been paid to workers and contractors since the funds were released in March 2024.
This has slowed down the progress of the project. Mtanda ordered the contractor responsible for delivering doors for the building to ensure they are provided immediately.
In addition, Mtanda promised to speak with the Ministry of Health about funding for other planned expansion projects at the hospital.
This maternity ward is expected to make a big difference in Ukerewe. It will allow women to receive care closer to home and reduce risks during childbirth. The facility is part of a larger plan by the government to improve healthcare in rural and underserved areas.
With the completion of this project, Ukerewe District Hospital will be better equipped to provide quality maternal healthcare. This will contribute to saving lives and ensuring healthier futures for mothers and their children in the district.