The Kilimanjaro Center for Community Ophthalmology (KCCO) has donated modern eye treatment equipment, assistive tools, and a state-of-the-art ultrasound machine worth TSh 100 million to Mbeya Zonal Referral Hospital (MZRH) to enhance pediatric eye care services in Tanzania’s Southern Highlands.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Martin Mutayoba, KCCO's Southern Highlands Representative, said the organization has been working closely with MZRH to strengthen eye health services, including mobile outreach programs for children with eye conditions.
“This donation is a result of ongoing collaboration with MZRH. We urge all users to take good care of the equipment to ensure it continues to serve children efficiently and for a long time,” he said.
Receiving the equipment, Acting Executive Director of MZRH, Dr. Uwesu Mchepange, expressed gratitude to KCCO for their timely support, noting that the donation would significantly improve service delivery and reduce delays in treating pediatric eye conditions.
“This support comes at a critical time and will accelerate service provision, minimizing the time children wait for specialized eye care,” Dr. Mchepange noted.
The equipment includes pediatric eye surgery machines, an eye-dedicated ultrasound scanner, and a range of assistive devices all aimed at improving pediatric ophthalmology services in the region.
Pediatric Ophthalmologist Dr. Barnabasi Mshangila also commended the hospital’s leadership for their commitment and partnership, emphasizing that the newly received equipment will help eliminate the need to refer young patients to other regions for specialized eye treatment.
“With this advanced equipment, we can now manage and treat most eye conditions in children right here in Mbeya,” Dr. Mshangila said.