Regional Commissioner Beno Malisa has called for greater recognition and support for health workers caring for premature newborns, stressing the critical role they play in saving lives under challenging conditions.
Malisa made the remarks on October 17, 2025, during the inauguration of the renovated Neonatal Care Unit (NCU) at Meta Maternity Hospital.
The upgrade was implemented by the Ifakara Health Institute (IHI) in partnership with NEST360 Tanzania.
“Seeing the ward firsthand opened my eyes to the immense challenges these health workers face. They deserve our respect and support for caring for newborns in difficult conditions that demand patience, skill, and compassion,” Malisa said.
He commended IHI and NEST360 for investing in health infrastructure and urged that the donated equipment be fully utilized to benefit communities, particularly in Mbeya region.
“The Sixth Phase Government has laid a strong foundation for health services. Stakeholder contributions complement these efforts. As Regional Commissioner, I will continue contributing practically each year I will donate a neonatal bed worth Sh12 million for premature babies,” he added.
Malisa encouraged other stakeholders to join government efforts to strengthen healthcare across Mbeya’s five districts, ensuring better infrastructure and improved newborn survival.
Ifakara Health Institute Director General Dr. Honorant Masanja said the NEST360 program began in 2019, initially covering seven hospitals, including Mbeya Regional Referral Hospital.
“Since 2024, the program has expanded to more regional and district hospitals in Mbeya, with completion expected by 2028,” Dr. Masanja said.
He emphasized that the program supports government efforts to reduce neonatal deaths, which currently occur at a rate of one every ten minutes in Tanzania.
“Eighty percent of these deaths are preventable with skilled health workers, modern medical equipment, and a conducive environment for care,” he added.
Dr. Godlove Mbwanji, Director of Southern Highlands Zonal Referral Hospital, also called for greater stakeholder involvement.
“The neonatal ward needs significant investment in equipment, personnel, and infrastructure. Private institutions and citizens must step up these newborns are the nation’s future,” Dr. Mbwanji said.