The government has set aside TZS5 billion to complete critical infrastructure at Chato Regional Referral Hospital, a move expected to improve the facility’s capacity to provide specialised healthcare services to patients in Geita and neighbouring areas.
The funds will be used to complete a mortuary, laundry facility, blood bank and ward building, Deputy Minister for Health Dr Florence Samizi said on Monday.
Dr Samizi, who was representing Health Minister Mohamed Mchengerwa, announced the allocation during an inspection of construction works and healthcare services at the hospital in Chato District.
She said the investment was intended to address remaining infrastructure gaps and create a better environment for delivering healthcare services.
“The government’s investment in this hospital should translate into better and timely services for citizens,” Dr Samizi said.
The hospital currently provides 15 specialised and highly specialised services, according to Dr Samizi, making completion of the outstanding facilities important for its continued expansion.
The first phase of the hospital’s construction cost TZS13 billion and covered key facilities, including an outpatient department (OPD), pharmacy, laboratory, emergency unit and intensive care unit (ICU).
The second phase is estimated at TZS18 billion, with TZS5 billion allocated to complete some of the facilities that remain unfinished.
Dr Samizi said completing the projects would strengthen the hospital’s ability to serve patients by improving its infrastructure and operational efficiency.
She also challenged hospital staff to ensure the government’s investment delivers value to citizens, urging them to maintain professionalism, integrity and discipline.
“Government investment in infrastructure and equipment must go hand in hand with accountability and quality service,” she said.
She directed hospital staff to ensure that buildings, medical equipment and other resources were properly maintained and used to improve patient care.
The investment is expected to further strengthen Chato Regional Referral Hospital as a centre for specialised healthcare, reducing the need for some patients to travel long distances to access treatment.
Chato North MP Cornel Lucas Magembe thanked the government for its continued investment in the area’s health sector, saying the projects had improved access to healthcare for residents.
He said continued investment in the hospital would help expand services available to people in Chato and surrounding areas.