CCM: We’ll transform BMH into regional medical hub

DODOMA: CCM presidential running mate Ambassador Emmanuel Nchimbi has unveiled government’s ambitious plan to transform Benjamin Mkapa Hospital (BMH) in Dodoma into a leading medical institution in Tanzania and across the East African region.

Speaking during a campaign rally held over the weekend in Nkuhungu, Dodoma, Amb Nchimbi said the initiative is part of the government’s broader vision to position Dodoma as a centre of excellence in healthcare, medical education and scientific research.

“We want this hospital to become a model for the entire African continent, a place that functions as a medical school, a treatment centre and a research hub, all in one,” said Amb Nchimbi.

“It should train doctors, nurses and healthcare professionals from both within and beyond Tanzania.”

He noted that over the next five years, BMH will be upgraded to serve as a premier facility for specialised treatment, advanced medical training and cutting-edge research.

In addition to this flagship project, Amb Nchimbi said the government also plans to upgrade the Dodoma Regional Referral Hospital by equipping it with modern medical tools and deploying highly trained medical specialists.

The aim, he said, is to ensure residents of Dodoma and neighbouring regions have access to quality healthcare services close to home, without the need to travel long distances.

Turning to the energy sector, Amb Nchimbi commended the achievements made under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, specifically citing the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project (JNHPP) as a major milestone.

He also highlighted a historic achievement in rural electrification.

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“For the first time in our history, all 12,318 villages in Tanzania have been connected to electricity, a massive leap from 2021, when over 3,700 villages were still off-grid.”

Amb Nchimbi added that these accomplishments not only reflect the government’s performance but also underscore President Samia’s transformative leadership, which, he noted, has significantly elevated the role and respect of women in Tanzanian society.

Meanwhile, Dodoma Regional Commissioner (RC) Rosemary Senyamule has commended BMH for offering free medical services to citizens and urged the facility to extend the initiative to reach more people.

She made the remarks over the weekend when she officiated the conclusion of BMH’s free medical screening and treatment camp held at Nyerere Square in the heart of the capital city.

The initiative, which received a positive response from Dodoma residents, formed part of the hospital’s 10th anniversary celebrations.

“I commend BMH for organising this medical camp. Let’s make this a regular event at least once a year because it gives people access to free health services,” said Ms Senyamule during the closing ceremony.