KOICA and UNICEF handover new health facilities in Dodoma

Dodoma, Tanzania, 16 June 2024 – Today marks a significant milestone in Tanzania's healthcare landscape as UNICEF, in collaboration with the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), officially handed over to the government the three newly constructed and renovated health facilities in Bahi, Chamwino and Chemba districts in Dodoma Region.

This initiative, launched in 2022 through the UNICEF-KOICA partnership, seeks to strengthen Tanzania's healthcare services by enhancing facilities for Comprehensive Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (CEmONC) services. This critical step aims to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality rates and promote safer childbirth practices.

The Government of Tanzania has made remarkable strides in transforming healthcare delivery, achieving a notable reduction in maternal mortality. However, newborn mortality remains a pressing challenge. According to the 2022 Tanzania Demographic and Health Survey (TDHS), 24 new babies tragically die for every 1,000 live births due to pregnancy and delivery-related complications. This places Tanzania far from the global Sustainable Development Goal (SDG), which requires reducing newborn mortality rates fewer than 12 per 1,000 live births by 2030.

"We believe that investing in maternal and child health is crucial for sustainable development," said Mr. Shin Manshik, KOICA Country Director for Tanzania, adding, “"KOICA is pleased to support Tanzania's efforts to strengthen its healthcare system. These facilities will not only provide immediate care but also serve as pillars of resilience for communities facing healthcare challenges, especially for women and children."

Equipped with modern amenities including 50-bed maternity wards, postnatal care units, state-of-the-art laboratories, theatres, and much more, these renovated facilities are set to significantly enhance healthcare for pregnant women in Dodoma Region. They will ensure that every woman and child receive the critical care they need.

"These new health facilities handed over today are not just health structures. They symbolize hope - a lifeline in providing critical services to save lives for mothers and children in Dodoma," said Lawrence Oundo, UNICEF Deputy Representative (Operations) to Tanzania, adding, "This initiative represents a significant stride towards achieving universal health coverage and ensuring no mother or child is left behind."

This project highlights the collaborative efforts of the Government, development partners, and local communities to address critical healthcare challenges and ensure access to lifesaving services, aiming to achieve sustainable healthcare goals.