ZANZIBAR has officially got its first ever referral hospital with the name ‘Mnazi Mmoja Referral Hospital’ after Members of the House approved a Bill to elevate Mnazi Mmoja National Hospital.
However, some backbenchers raised doubts
about preparation for the upgrading rejecting the use of the word
‘national’ in the law.
Prior to approval by the House, Mr
Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, the Minister of Health, said the established
agency will be responsible to set good conditions and procedures for
providing better, efficient and effective health services. “…it will
serve as a referral hospital and provide efficient systems for delivery
of health care in Zanzibar.
The Hospital shall undertake medical
care for out-patients and in-patients free of charge in accordance with
the policy and guidelines,” said the minister.
Giving their opinions on the bill, many
legislators said it was too early to use the word ‘national’ because of
shortage of equipment, proposing reforms including infrastructure
improvement, ensuring the hospitals have enough specialists, skilled
medical workers, equipment, and enough space for different services like
cars parking area.
Mr Hamza Hassan Juma (Shaurimoyo-CCM),
Mr Jaku Hashim Ayoub (Paje-CCM), and Dr Ali Makame Ussi (Mtopepo-CCM)
were among the backbenchers who welcomed the hospital upgrading, but
they called for Infrastructure improvement.
Dr Ussi suggested a new name ‘AM Shein
Mnazi Mmoja Referral Hospital’ in respect of the serving President Dr
Ali Mohamed Shein who has been tirelessly fighting for the improvement
of health services.
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