Kwimba District Hospital in Mwanza Region now hosts a modern neonatal ward aimed at improving care for premature babies and enhancing maternal and child health services.
The facility was officially inaugurated on February 28, 2026, by Prof. Mohamed Janabi, representing the World Health Organization Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
The ward, funded by the Doris Mollel Foundation in partnership with Keep a Child Alive, is dedicated to providing specialized care for newborns, especially preterm infants.
The initiative aligns with government efforts to reduce neonatal deaths and improve health outcomes for mothers and children.
Prof. Janabi highlighted the significance of the investment, saying it reflects the unwavering commitment of development partners to ensure that premature babies receive safe, high-quality care.
“Strengthening neonatal services is critical to building a healthy generation and preventing avoidable child deaths,” he said.
Doris Mollel, Executive Director of the Doris Mollel Foundation, said the organization has driven reforms since its founding in 2015, supporting preterm babies and advocating for better policies such as improved parental leave and national funding for neonatal medical equipment.
She explained that the neonatal ward was designed with direct input from local mothers to ensure it meets both practical and emotional needs.
“This project is a result of strong collaboration between the government, development partners, and the community,” she added.
Health experts at the launch noted that the facility will significantly increase Kwimba Hospital’s capacity to care for newborns requiring specialized treatment, providing a safer start for premature babies and contributing to wider efforts to reduce neonatal mortality in Tanzania.