BMH to host global organ transplant conference

DODOMA: THE Benjamin Mkapa Hospital (BMH), in collaboration with the University of Dodoma (UDOM), is expected to host an International Conference on Organ Transplant Health Services next year.

The hospital’s Executive Director, Prof Abel Makubi, revealed this recently in Dodoma, as the zonal hospital based in the capital became the only facility in the country offering sickle cell treatment through bone marrow transplantation for children suffering from the disease.

“We expect the conference to be held next year and it will bring together national and international experts to promote the exchange of experience, knowledge and expertise, as well as provide an opportunity to showcase the major investments and transformations made by the Government in the health sector,” Prof Makubi explained.

This is part of BMH’s initiative to boost medical tourism, which has seen the hospital collaborate with other stakeholders to conduct various medical camps both within and outside the country, including in Comoros and Burundi.

In strengthening the country’s medical tourism efforts, Minister for Health Jenista Mhagama recently launched the Royal International Patients and Master Health Check-up Clinics at Benjamin Mkapa Hospital in Dodoma, calling on the private sector to join the cause and support the government’s health sector goals.

Regarding the newly launched services at BMH, Prof Makubi assured the public that the introduction of international- standard services will not compromise the delivery of high-quality, professional care to ordinary citizens.

“These services are aimed at improving access to advanced medical care for Tanzanians and foreign visitors alike. They will be delivered promptly, with our doctors working overtime to ensure efficient service,” he said.

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Currently, the Dodoma-based zonal hospital (BMH) offers 20 specialist and 17 sub-specialist services, serving an average of 1,200 patients per day, up from 900 in previous years.

In addition to collaborating with UDOM to organise the upcoming conference, the two public institutions have jointly secured a 28bn/- project aimed at establishing a state-of-the-art kidney transplant centre in the capital.

The project’s financier, the TOKUSHUKAI Organisation, is a renowned Japanese non-profit medical group operating an extensive network of hospitals and healthcare facilities in Japan and abroad.

It is one of the largest private medical groups in Asia, known for delivering high-quality care and contributing significantly to international health development initiatives.