Milestone as KIDH achieves international accreditation for 52 research tests

MOSHI: KIBONG’OTO Infectious Diseases Hospital (KIDH) in Siha, Kilimanjaro Region, has reached a significant milestone in the health sector by securing international accreditation for 52 of its research tests.

The accreditation, awarded by the Southern African Development Community Accreditation Service (SADCAS), recognises the hospital’s exceptional standards.

The hospital’s Director, Dr Leonard Subi attributed the achievement to the government’s substantial investment in the institution, which has enabled the development of a state-of-the-art laboratory.

“The government’s investment of billions of shillings facilitated the establishment of a modern laboratory and when SADCAS assessed our services, we were proud to receive this accreditation,” he said.

Dr Subi highlighted that this milestone was particularly remarkable considering the short time frame, noting that the hospital first sought accreditation in 2018.

Since then, KIDH has consistently improved, receiving recognition for its quality and safety standards.

“The recognition reflects years of effort by our dedicated staff and the ongoing support from the government, which was acknowledged by the SADCAS officials during their visits,” he added.

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In 2018, KIDH received accreditation for four research tests. By 2022, that number had increased to 28 and in 2024, a total of 52 tests were officially recognised, marking a significant achievement for both the hospital and the nation.

Dr Subi emphasised that KIDH’s success in areas such as Clinical Chemistry, Serology, Mycobacteriology, Parasitology, and Microbiology demonstrates the hospital’s strong research capabilities. “This recognition further cements Kibong’oto’s international standing and highlights our readiness to tackle any disease,” he said.

KIDH Laboratory Manager, Dr Shaban Mziray, noted that the achievement holds great significance for both the hospital and the broader health sector.

“This accreditation reduces the need to send samples abroad, as we now have the capacity to conduct tests at an internationally recognised facility here in Tanzania,” he stated.

This milestone reflects KIDH’s continued commitment to advancing medical research and improving healthcare standards, with the potential to benefit both the nation and the wider region.