Patients and healthcare workers at Iyela Health Centre in Mbeya Region are expected to benefit from improved privacy and security following efforts to speed up the construction of a perimeter fence around the facility.
The move gained momentum on May 25, 2026 after CCM National Executive Committee (MNEC) member Ndele Mwaselela donated 5,000 bricks and 100 bags of cement to support the project, which residents say will help improve healthcare services, especially for mothers and newborns.
Mwaselela directed the health centre leadership and residents of Iyela Ward to immediately begin construction works, saying the project is crucial for protecting patients and strengthening service delivery at the growing facility.
“This project is very important for the community. I urge leaders, residents, bodaboda riders and bajaji operators to join hands and ensure the construction starts immediately because this health centre serves all of us,” he said.
Built in 2023, Iyela Health Centre has become an important healthcare facility for residents in Mbeya, providing maternal and child health services among others. More than 1,800 children have already been delivered at the centre since it started operations.
However, the absence of a fence has continued to raise concerns over patient privacy, security and the safety of medical equipment, particularly in maternity sections where women require a secure and confidential environment.
Residents including Victoria Haonga and Flora Jackson said the construction of the fence will restore dignity and privacy for expectant mothers and other patients seeking treatment at the facility.
“We thank President Samia Suluhu Hassan for bringing us this health centre, which has greatly improved access to healthcare services. The fence will further strengthen privacy and safety for mothers and patients,” said Haonga.
Medical officer Dr. Godwin Mariatabu said the project will also improve the working environment for healthcare providers and help protect medical supplies and equipment.
According to health officials, completion of the fence will allow pregnant women to move more freely within the facility while improving overall security and efficiency in service delivery.
Despite the progress, the health centre still faces infrastructure challenges, including a shortage of covered walkways linking buildings within the compound, a situation that disrupts movement and service delivery during heavy rains.
