Tanzania has opened its largest neonatal care facility in Kwimba District, marking a major step in efforts to reduce newborn deaths, particularly in rural areas.
The centre forms part of a broader plan to roll out 100 high-quality Neonatal Intensive Care Units across Africa. Equipped with solar-powered technology and 15 specialised neonatal beds, the facility is expected to help save around 1 300 babies each year.
Doctors at the unit will focus mainly on complications linked to premature births. The centre also supports Kangaroo Mother Care, allowing mothers to remain close to their infants, a practice known to improve survival chances for fragile newborns.
Health officials say the new unit comes at a critical time, as the country continues to grapple with high mortality rates during the first 28 days of life, the most vulnerable period for newborns.
The project is part of an initiative worth about $830 000 aimed at strengthening specialised healthcare services in underserved communities.
–ChannelAfrica–
