ZAMBIA: Kasama Archdiocese Transforms Healthcare Landscape Through Partnership with Medicines for Humanity
Health Coordinator for the Archdiocese Father Leonard Kalyoti
Sandra Kunda
In a significant stride towards enhancing healthcare services, the Archdiocese of Kasama in the Northern Province of Zambia has witnessed remarkable improvements in its health facilities through a collaborative partnership with Medicines for Humanity (MFH).
Health Coordinator for the Archdiocese Father Leonard Kalyoti said since the inception of this partnership in January 2023, life-changing developments have unfolded across four facilities within the Archdiocese.
Fr. Kalyoti has outlined that among the significant advancements facilitated by MFH are the acquisition and installation of two Portable Digital X-Ray machines with printers for Mambwe and Santa Maria, leading to improved diagnostic capabilities in these areas.
He states that additionally, the procurement of Ultrasound Machines, Chemistry Analyzers, Hematology Analyzers, Anesthetic machines, laptops, and desktops has further bolstered the diagnostic and treatment capacities of the health facilities.
The Health Coordinator said the partnership has also addressed logistical challenges by providing essential transportation resources notably, the purchase of a motorbike for Lubushi and three for Santa Maria, along with the donation of a reliable second-hand Land Cruiser for Santa Maria, which has significantly improved the accessibility of health services, especially in remote areas.
He notes that the introduction of bicycles for Community Health Workers has enhanced the reach of healthcare services, facilitating a more comprehensive and community-oriented approach.
Acknowledging other strides Fr. Kalyoti says the Archdiocese has observed tangible improvements in maternal and child health, including a reduction in home deliveries and a complete elimination of maternal deaths during and after childbirth.
He has since expressed gratitude, for the Archdiocese’s willingness to work with MFH and other collaborating with organizations that align with the principles and teachings of the Catholic Church in healthcare provision, further appreciating the support from the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB) National Health department and the dedicated health professionals.
The Kasama Archdiocese is responsible for overseeing six health facilities, including Santa Maria in Chilubi District, Lubushi Rural Health Center (RHC) in Kasama District, St. Fidelis 1st Level Hospital in Kasama, Kapatu RHC in Lunte District, Mambwe RHC in Senga Hills District, and Kayambi RHC in Mungwi District.
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